*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. All photos are my own and previously unpublished. I am not being paid to promote any of the products mentioned in this article. If you've found your way here then you'll be familiar with the cat calming products offered by Feliway and may be wondering: which one is best? Well, that depends on what kind of behaviour you're trying to eliminate. Known as the number one clinically-proven cat behavioural product, Feliway is backed by over 25 years of science and research into pet welfare. There are three types of plug-ins available: Classic, Optimum and Friends. The following reviews cover Optimum and Friends, which I've tried and tested on my own squabbling boys - but don't worry, I've put together a comparison of all three here . Feliway Classic 30 Day Starter Kit ✓  Stress & minor changes Feliway Optimum 30 Day Starter Kit ✓  Behavioural issues & major changes Feliway Friends 30 Day Starter Kit ✓ Multi-cat tension Skip straight to Feliway Optimum and Feliway Friends reviews . Also in this article: What Are Pheromones? Why Use a Feliway Diffuser? Pros and Cons of a Feliway Diffuser How to Use a Feliway Diffuser Feliway Classic, Optimum and Friends Comparison Does Feliway Work? What Are Pheromones? We've already covered quite a bit on the importance of feline pheromones, but if you want to learn more then check out this article before reading on: What Are Cat Pheromones and How Do They Work? In short, pheromones are chemicals that cats release from various glands around their bodies through scent marking. They can be detected by other cats and used as signals or messages, making them a valuable source of communication. Diffusers contain artificial pheromones that are slowly released when plugged in to make cats feel safe, secure and comfortable within their environment. Visit Why Use a Feliway Diffuser? Pheromone products are designed to help cats feel more relaxed and reduce anxiety-related behaviours such as: Scratching or clawing furniture. Overgrooming. Hiding. Fear and nervousness. Urinating outside the litterbox and spraying (territory marking). Excessive vocalisation. Fighting with other household cats. They also claim to diminish stress associated with new situations such as moving house; introducing new cats, pets or babies; fireworks and vet visits . For a shorter-term alternative, sprays are also available that can be used on carriers prior to travelling or around problem areas of the home. Feliway Classic Spray is available in 20ml or 60ml bottles. According to Feliway studies, 41.7% of owners felt that their relationship with their cats improved after using the spray. Related post: 6 Best Cat Calming Sprays Pros and Cons of a Feliway Diffuser Pros: Clinically proven and vet recommended. Easy to use. Effective within 1 week. Undetectable to humans. Reduces stress in cats of all ages. Drug free. Covers 70m ² . 48ml bottle lasts up to 30 days. Cons: May need more than one diffuser to cover multiple floors or areas of the home. Expensive for long-term use. Plug-in should be replaced every 6 months. How to Use a Feliway Diffuser Diffusers should be plugged into an electrical socket nearest to where cats spend most of their time, avoiding draught areas such as windows and doors. Ensure it's not covered by furniture or curtains as this can cause blockages and prevent the pheromones from dispersing properly. Leave the diffuser on 24/7 for continuous use or up to 2 weeks prior to a stressful event (moving house, fireworks, etc). Vials need to be replaced once empty, for which you can buy refill packs online. It's advised to replace the plug after 5 refills or 6 months of use. Feliway recommends that diffusers are used for 3-4 weeks for best results, although many owners see effects within the first 7 days. Feliway Classic, Optimum and Friends Comparison CLASSIC OPTIMUM FRIENDS Pheromones 2% FFP 2% FPC 2% CAP Behaviours Hiding; urine spraying; scratching. Fear; hiding; urine spraying; scratching; fighting; overgrooming (if stress related); reduced appetite (if stress related). Tension; conflict; fighting; blocking; staring. Situations Urinating outside the litter tray; changes in the home. Introducing a new pet or baby; moving home; changes in routine. Aggression between cats; introducing a new cat; aiding bonding. Amazon Rating ⭐ 4.2 ⭐ 4.2 ⭐ 4.1 Feliway Classic - Mimics the feline facial pheromone (FFP) which cats produce when rubbing their face and cheeks against objects in their environment, creating a sense of familiarity and safety. This is the original Feliway that has helped to make cats feel comfortable at home and reduce signs of stress for over 25 years. It can be useful for minor changes such as vet visits or travelling. Feliway Optimum - Contains a new feline pheromone complex, a blend of pheromones designed to address a wider range of behavioural issues. It provides overall serenity, especially when preparing for major changes in the home. Feliway Friends - A synthetic version of the feline appeasing pheromone (CAP) that a mother cat naturally releases after giving birth. These are used to make kittens feel safe and protected; as well as aiding bonding, identification and harmonious interactions between littermates. This is recommended for multi-cat households to minimise tension and conflict. Visit Does Feliway Work? With all three diffusers boasting a 4-star or above rating on Amazon, it's safe to say that Feliway products are effective in many cases. Some customers complain about value for money, especially when there are some good cheaper alternatives; and diffusers not working for their cats. According to the Feliway website: Classic users reported a reduction in urine marking in 9 out of 10 cats after 4 weeks. 93% of Optimum users noticed their cats showed enhanced serenity with the following reductions: *Scratching -73% *Urine spraying -77% *Conflict -72% *Fear, hiding and stress associated with changes or new situations -73% Friends was the first product that was scientifically proven to reduce conflict and tension between cats living in the same household. Customer Feedback Classic Owners report positive results for hiding, urine spraying, scratching and overgrooming. In a few cases, it's said to help make cats more sociable with people. Optimum Highly rated for easing tension between household cats where other signs of anxiety are present. It's also used for reducing territorial behaviour when introducing cats for the first time and settling rescue cats. It's most effective on scratching and excessive meowing or crying. Friends Positive results are seen with nervous cats and those that generally annoy each other. It reduces conflict triggered by changes, including moving house or additional pets. Many owners use Feliway (unsuccessfully) when introducing new kittens to existing cats, but this could be due to not going through the proper introduction process. Bringing a kitten into the household is a change in itself and can be extremely upsetting for other residents depending on factors such as age, personality and temperament. I've seen an abundance of negative reviews from people using Feliway and other brands to calm their excitable kittens. Pheromones are no substitute for play and other forms of enrichment or stimulation. It's crucial to give young cats and kittens an outlet for their excess of energy  to prevent annoying other cats or engaging in destructive behaviour. If you suspect your kitten has abnormal hyperactivity levels then consult a vet for advice. Feliway Reviews While Feliway Classic has a whopping 38,000+ reviews on Amazon, Optimum is the most highly recommended as it contains a new and improved pheromone complex that has been proven to calm cats better than ever. I therefore didn't feel it necessary to purchase both, but instead focused on Optimum and Friends for targeting aggression and conflict between my boys. It's important to note that diffusers are aimed at reducing behaviours caused by or resulting from stress , which usually goes hand in hand with aggression, but it won't eliminate the cause. Diffusers are by no means a miracle cure to stop cats from fighting, but providing a safe and comfortable environment may help towards making cats feel more relaxed in general. Diffusers are no substitute for medical treatment and you should always consult a vet to check for underlying health conditions that may be contributing to problem behaviour Feliway Optimum Plug-in Diffuser and Refill *Reviews are based on aggressive behaviours rather than purely stress related. Product/Packaging In the first instance, these Feliway starter kits contain 1 diffuser and 1 refill. Feliway is currently the most expensive brand on the market, but once the vial runs out you can purchase more refills at a slightly lower cost. Quality As far as the diffusers themselves go, there was no detectable odour, overheating or burning. The only thing I'll say is that the top of the plugs get a bit sticky from the vapour residue and this tends to attract dust. When I turned the diffusers off for an extended length of time and switched them back on again, some of the dust would singe and there was a slight burning smell. This went away after I wiped the dust off, so it's not a fault with the diffuser but more with my cleaning skills. My advice would be to unplug the diffuser when not in use and store inside the box it's packaged in. I didn't experience any side effects such as headaches, which some people complain of. I assume this is a result of sensitivity to the paraffin-based solution that holds the pheromones. The diffusers didn't last for the full 30 days, but in my experience none of them do! Usage As the most popular and recommended Feliway diffuser, Optimum was the first one I tried, with its new and improved pheromone complex. One diffuser covers up to 70m ² so I put it on the ground floor where the cats spend most of their time, as per instructions. The first time using this, my cats stopped fighting after a few days, but whether this was a coincidence is anyone’s guess. When I say fighting, they weren't so much physical fights but more brewing tension: growling, hissing, stalking, blocking and staring. This came on suddenly and the cause of aggression  was unclear, but I turned the diffuser off after around two weeks. When problems resurfaced a few months later, I plugged the diffuser back in and didn't notice a difference in either cat's behaviour. The signs of aggression  were the same as previously but quickly escalated, with chasing and full-contact fights. Feliway Friends Plug-in Diffuser and Refill After giving it 3-4 weeks, I decided to try Feliway Friends (CAP pheromone) as recommended for reducing conflict in multi-cat households, which was more fitting to my cats’ needs. Again, there were no obvious effects so I turned it off just to make sure I wasn’t missing something - even the slightest change was better than nothing. For reference, I have two cats: Drax was always the main aggressor and Simba was the victim. Interestingly, in the days following, Drax’s behaviour started to improve . The fighting still occurred but there was less stalking and chasing with an overall healthier interest in his brother. On the flip side, Simba was noticeably more skittish without the diffusers - which should come as no surprise if you’ve followed My Story . Annoyingly, my cats are so opposite in personality that finding remedies to suit both has been challenging to say the least! Related post: Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats Comfort Zone Plug-In Pheromone Diffuser for single or multi-cat homes. Creates a calm, relaxing environment to help reduce stress and other problem behaviours, as well as tension and fighting between household cats. To make doubly sure I wasn’t imagining things, I tried the Comfort Zone brand which contains another analogue of feline pheromones, albeit a little cheaper than Feliway. The results were similar, which I can only take as evidence of what we already know. Pheromone therapy had a positive effect on Simba as the “victim” by lowering anxiety levels, but no effect on Drax as the aggressor. What I can’t figure out is how or why the diffusers would have made him more  aggressive. After some research - that is, trawling through other buyer reviews - I found similar stories of diffusers having a negative effect on cats where aggression is already present. Some owners even claimed that their cats had peed on the diffusers themselves! I have no evidence that links diffusers to increased aggression and as Drax began to improve naturally, they seemed to stop having an effect altogether. Cats are complex creatures, as we know. It wouldn’t be fair to pin any blame on Feliway or its competitors and I don’t have a negative opinion of pheromone products in general; all I can say is that they worked for one cat and not the other. There are plenty of owners claiming that diffusers stopped their cats from fighting but, without knowing the cause of aggression or the cats themselves, it's hard to form a conclusion. Nor can I comment on their effectiveness for more stress-related behaviours such as scratching or overgrooming. At the risk of making Drax worse, I initially ditched the pheromones and focused more on creating a calmer environment with a Pet Remedy diffuser. These contain blends of valerian, vetiver, basil and clary sage essential oils to tackle stress and anxiety, which means they're not cat specific. Pet Remedy Calming Diffuser contains a low concentration of valerian and essential oils to work with a cat's natural calming mechanisms when tackling stress and anxiety. Ideal for most pets including cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents and birds. As far as Pet Remedy goes, the boys definitely seemed to be more relaxed and slept sounder than usual; but the aggression persisted until I got to the root of the issue. Find out more in: How to Stop Cats Spraying and Urine Marking Outside Your Home with 8 Tips Perhaps this explains why Feliway was effective the first time around and not the second. If it was purely tension from a minor squabble with no external stressor, the diffuser would have more of an effect than if there was an underlying cause for aggression. Many owners have reported successful results in different situations and scenarios, so it really comes down to your individual cat/s. Unfortunately, it's all guesswork at this point. The boys had fallen out and made up so many times in the past that they might have done so again without the diffuser. The only difference this time was that the levels of aggression were higher and more long-lasting, so I bought a diffuser to help during the separation and reintroduction process. Feliway Help 7-Day Starter Kit Plug-in diffuser and cartridge ideal for temporary situations or a trial period. Provides 7 days of happy messages to your cat. Conclusion While Feliway Optimum seemed to help with Simba's nerves around Drax, Feliway Friends had little if any effect. I would have expected the opposite; but again, as the conflict was a result of external circumstances rather than problems between the cats themselves, this is perhaps why there was no improvement. Feliway makes no claims of reducing aggression that isn't stress related, so I don't believe the issue completely lies with the products. More notably, I switched back to Feliway Optimum once the other diffusers had run out and found that it still had a negative effect on Drax. With some caution, I bought another Comfort Zone and had no issues. This was good for everyone because it seemed to work just as well on Simba as Feliway Optimum, if not better - as well as being a fair bit cheaper. Progress between the boys has been slow and steady, but I wasn't expecting miracles. Pheromone diffusers are a treatment rather than a cure and work best alongside other changes, whether that involves their environment; medical intervention or advice from a behaviourist. I definitely notice a difference when the diffuser runs out, as Simba tends to get more defensive and hissy around Drax. What works for one cat might not work for another, which is perhaps why there are so many conflicting reviews. For now I'll stick with Comfort Zone because it's the best option for us, but Feliway Optimum is a worthy contender and comes highly rated by customers - see for yourself! Related post: Best Cat Calming Plug-in Pheromone Diffusers (Tried and Tested) Information accurate from March 2026 and may be subject to change. Feel free to get in touch if you think this article needs updating. Have you tried any of the diffusers mentioned or think you've found a better alternative? Share your experiences and feedback in the comments to help out fellow cat parents.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. All photos are my own and previously unpublished. I am not being paid to promote any of the products mentioned in this article. Silvervine Reviews Go to review ⇨ Mew & Friends Silvervine Powder Go to review ⇨ Nepfaivy Silvervine Chew Sticks I wanted to put silvervine to the test and share some product reviews out of curiosity and due to my cats' lack of enthusiasm with catnip. They're not totally immune.... just mostly! Simba seems more interested in the packet itself, whether that's snorting the contents as if it's an illegal substance or chewing the corners of the packaging - hey, it makes a change from sneaking onto the kitchen counter and gnawing on the bread bags. Drax is more reactive and will generally rub or scratch areas where catnip is sprinkled, but I've not witnessed any obvious "highs". Sprays seem to be the choice of preference and he's been known to nuzzle the odd toy here and there, but it really depends on his mood and energy levels. It's also worth mentioning that I parent a couple of lazy bones that are bored of anything within ten minutes. I like to keep some catnip handy to lure them onto new beds and stands; scratch mats and posts to make them more enticing than carpets. Learn more about what silvervine is and how it works in this informative post: Silvervine vs Catnip: Which Is Best for Cats? What Is Silvervine? In short, silvervine (Actinidia polygama) is a climbing plant native to East Asia, named for its silver-white leaves and flowers. It contains two active ingredients, Actinide and dihydroactinidiolide, whereas catnip only contains nepetalactone. In theory, this should make it a more potent substance; but there's still a chance that some cats could be immune. The main forms of silvervine you can purchase for cats are powder, sticks and infused toys. Mew & Friends Silvervine Powder Despite the popularity of silvervine in China and Japan, it seems to be less known to the Western world, with a poor selection of products in the UK. I chose Mew & Friends Silvervine due to their highly-rated Catnip , as well as being a familiar brand and donating 10% of all profits to animal shelters. Mew & Friends Silvervine is 100% natural and organic and, like most powders, is produced from the plant's gall fruit, which has a higher concentration of the active ingredients. As you can see from the image below, silvervine is quite different in appearance to catnip. The finely-ground powder has a sweet, pungent earthy aroma and is brown in colour. For a mere 15 grams, it doesn't seem like you're getting much for your money, but a little goes a long way. The powder is relatively compacted inside a convenient tin, which I really like - although I can't say the same for Simba, the chewing machine. So, the packaging is a plus but what about the product? Without a nice crunchy bag to suck on (under supervision, of course) Simba was unsurprisingly indifferent and no more reactive than with catnip. Drax had a good sniff and ended up with a brown nose, which is another point to note. The powder does leave a residue - this is of no danger to cats, but if you have pale carpets then be warned. You can see an example of this in the image below depicting a test toy that I sprinkled with the product, although it's nothing that can't be washed off. While I had "high" hopes for this magic dust, unfortunately, its effects were barely a step up from catnip. I don't blame the product; as with anything cat related, some will be more interested than others. The most enthusiasm Drax has shown is with the plush toy (a freebie that came with a cool window perch) which I have to admit is a rarity, as catnip-infused toys are usually ignored. I wouldn't say it stimulates playfulness but, rather, it seems to enhance excitability when he's already in the mood. He had me in stitches flinging the toy around and nuzzling it to death with the craziest eyes I've ever seen. I offered the toy dabbed in silvervine rather than purchasing one that already has it incorporated. Due to the disappointing selection of silvervine cat toys and the fact that mine aren't overly interested, it's not worth the extra purchase for me. However, if you have any experiences to share then feel free to comment and let us know if your kitties approved. To save a few pennies and use up any old catnip or silvervine, check out these fun and furr-tastic DIY cat toy ideas . Summary Despite not meeting my hopes, I would buy silvervine powder again for the following reasons: Being a parent of lazy indoor cats, anything that takes the pressure off me is a win - even if one cat is immune! Can be mixed with catnip and used to make your own soft toys. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 400+ Amazon reviews. Shop pet supplies 30% off orders over £39 with code UKNEW30 →  Click to accept 100 coupon bundle →  Click to accept Nepfaivy Silvervine Chew Sticks In contrast to powders and toys, silvervine sticks for cats (also known as Matatabi sticks) come in a variety of styles which I can appreciate. From plain chew sticks to incorporated feathers, gall fruits and even catnip fillings for extra zoomies! If you know your cat's likes and dislikes, which I'm certain you do, then this may be a good (and less costly) option. My boys give these silvervine chew sticks a big paws up, and they're great to review as it's basically 5 toys in 1. In no particular order, here are the best features: The stick itself contains all the properties and benefits of silvervine. Lafite grass (rafia) which my kitties love to tear apart, probably due to the rustling sound it makes when chewed - bonus points from Simba. Catnip filling for extra attraction. Hanging gall fruit, which contains the highest concentration of active ingredients. Hemp or sisal rope, probably the best feature as far as safety goes. This makes the toy more durable and bite resistant, preventing splintering into small parts that cats might swallow. This 100% natural silvervine-catnip toy is described as being great for stress relief, as well as stimulating playful behaviour; promoting gut function; reducing furballs and eliminating dental plaque. Depending on how often your cats use them, they generally last until worn down. These chew sticks come in a pack of six and are suitable for cats over 2 months old. If you're looking for a bit more interaction, the addition of feathers and balls is an exciting option with the PetGens Silvervine Chew Sticks . While I haven't tried the standard plain sticks, the SeaMorn 30 Pcs Budget Pack is great value. Summary With so much variety and so many benefits, silvervine chew sticks are a must-have for every kitty household. Multipacks are even better as it means there's plenty to go around without squabbling, and at great prices. Both of my boys enjoy chewing, licking and batting these around and they last for ages. I always keep a supply available to swap out once they're worn down. You could even customise plain sticks with your own twine and additional bells or feathers. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 300+ Amazon reviews. I hope this helps anyone who is either unfamiliar with silvervine products or on the fence about giving it a whirl. These reviews are based on tried and tested products that are 100% natural, safe and non-addictive to your fur babies. If you'd rather stick to catnip, there's a huge variety to choose from. To make it easier, check out these top recommended catnip toys, blends and sprays . Mentioned Products Mew & Friends Catnip PetGens Silvervine Chew Sticks SeaMorn 30 Pcs Budget Pack Information accurate from March 2026 and may be subject to change. Feel free to get in touch if you think this article needs updating. Do your cats give silvervine a paws up or paws down? Do you have any amazing products to share? Let us know in the comments!

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Recommendations are based on extensive research into products, brands, customer feedback and my own reviews wherever applicable. 10 Best Cat Calming Treats: Scrumbles Calming Krunchies Cat Treats Beaphar StressLess Herbal Calming Cat Treats VETIQ Healthy Bites Serene Calming for Cats Woyamay Calming Cat Chews AmeizPet Healthy Calm Bites Happy Snack by Feliway Zesty Paws Calming Paste for Cats GimCat Relax Paste Woyamay Hemp Cat Calming Chews PrimaCat Cat Treats with Catnip Most Recommended View ⇨ Scrumbles Calming Krunchies 🥇 Natural and Gut-Friendly View ⇨ Woyamay Calming Chews 🥈 Packed with Flavour View ⇨ Zesty Paws Calming Paste 🥉 Soft and Kitten-Friendly Cat calming treats are designed to help reduce stress and anxiety in a gentle, natural way without causing drowsiness or changes to a cat's personality, as is seen with some prescription medications. They're often used to relax cats during stressful events like vet visits , travelling, fireworks and changes in routine or environment. By lowering anxiety levels, you should see a reduction in stress-related behaviours such as: Destruction to furniture (scratching, chewing, urine spraying). Excessive vocalisation. Overgrooming. Hiding. Aggression. Chronic stress can lead to serious health issues, and calming treats may help to support short and long-term physical and emotional health. Treats and supplements work from the inside, while other calming aids - like diffusers and sprays - provide a comfortable and secure environment, so you can use both in conjunction for extra zen. This is particularly beneficial within multi-cat households to reduce conflict and fighting. Related post: Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats Since stress is commonly related to boredom or inactivity, especially for indoor cats , it's important to schedule daily playtime with your cat and provide other forms of enrichment . Calming treats usually contain blends of natural ingredients such as: Herbs like valerian, lavender and chamomile. The amino acid, L-tryptophan (boosts serotonin levels). Melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Since treats are designed to be exactly that - a tasty snack - they're easier to administer than pills or supplements. They can also aid training and bonding, hence why they're a popular option amongst pet parents. But which one to buy? Visit With so many different types and brands available, I've hunted down 10 of the most highly rated treats that offer a balance between quality and affordability. These include a mixture of soft and crunchy treats, pastes and flavours to suit all preferences - even the fussy ones! *Treats and supplements should not be used to replace veterinary treatment or medications. If your cat is displaying abnormal behaviour then you should take them for a health check-up at the first opportunity and follow the advice of your vet. Cat Calming Treats ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Scrumbles Calming Krunchies Cat Treats Scrumbles is a UK pet food brand known for their natural, high-protein recipes with an emphasis on digestive health. Calming Krunchies combine a crunchy outer shell with a soft filling that supports calm behaviour for a zen kitty. Other varieties of Scrumbles Krunchies include Anti-Hairball, Dental and Chicken. Ingredients Active ingredients include: Valerian and chamomile to support relaxation. Pumpkin and yeast to promote healthy digestion. Treats contain 100% natural ingredients with no artificial nasties or added sugars, as well as being gluten-free. While Scrumbles wet and dry food recipes are made with a portion of fresh meat, treats only contain dried chicken. Despite claiming to be hypoallergenic, it still contains some undesirable ingredients including pea starch and rice flour. However, the meat quantity and ingredients are better quality than bog-standard treats. Other ingredients: Dried chicken 22%, rice flour, pea starch, potato protein, coconut oil, poultry fat, vegetable fibre, hydrolysed chicken protein, dried brewers yeast, minerals, dried valerian root 0.1%, dried chamomile 0.1%. Feeding At less than 2 kcal per treat, you can feed cats 10-15 Krunchies per day. Suitable for cats and kittens over 8 months old. Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 400+ Amazon reviews. Customers find Scrumbles Krunchies to be of good quality and say the size is suitable for both kittens and adult cats. They receive positive feedback for their calming effect and, while most cats enjoy the taste, some won't eat them. There are a generous amount of treats per bag at an affordable price. ✓ Valerian and chamomile. ✕ Rice flour, pea starch, potato protein. ✓ Natural ingredients. ✓ Supports digestion. ✓ Value for money. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Beaphar StressLess Herbal Calming Cat Treats Beaphar products consist of anti-parasite treatments, behaviour and training aids, vitamins and supplements. StressLess Calming Treats are part of the herbal calming range to help reduce feline stress and anxiety, as well as unwanted behaviours like scratching and urine spraying . They provide additional support during stressful situations like fireworks and travelling. You can use StressLess Herbal Calming Treats alongside other Beaphar calming products: Beaphar Cat Calming Products: Diffuser, Spray, Spot-On, Collar and Tablets Ingredients Treats are chicken flavoured and the active ingredients include: Valerian - calming and stress relieving properties. Melissa - calming and soothing with muscle relaxing properties. Rosemary - reduces stress and anxiety by improving state of wellbeing. Hop flowers - calming and soothing. Other ingredients: Cereals, Milk and milk derivatives, Derivatives of vegetable origin (Melissa officinalis 5%, Hop blossoms 1%, Valerian extract 0.1%), Oils and fats (Chicken fat 3.5%), Minerals, Yeasts, Fish and fish derivatives, Meat and animal derivatives. Feeding Treats should be fed up to one-and-a-half hours before a stressful event and every 3 hours thereafter, with no more than 6 given per day. For ongoing use, 2 treats per day is recommended. They're suitable for cats of all ages. Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 3,000+ Amazon reviews. Customers say that StressLess Treats are effective at calming nervous pets, particularly behaviours like hiding and overgrooming. They help during fireworks and car journeys, as well as promoting restful sleep. Some cats find them too large and hard to chew, and having been a previous user of these treats, mine will only eat them if they're hidden in a pile of other treat biscuits or kibble. However, they do have a mild effect. ✓   Valerian, Melissa, hop flowers, rosemary. ✕   Cereals and unknown derivatives. ✓   Suitable for long-term use. ✕   Hard to chew. ✓   Use with other Beaphar products. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ VETIQ Healthy Bites Serene Calming for Cats VETIQ develops preventative care products and functional treats designed to enhance pets' health and wellness. Healthy Bites help to relax your cat naturally by reducing anxious behaviour caused by stressful situations such as loud noises, changes to the home, travel and separation anxiety. In addition to Serene Calming, VETIQ Healthy Bites range inlcudes Urinary Care, Hairball Relief, Growth Support and Nutribooster. Ingredients Treats contain a unique blend of lemon balm, chamomile and ginger oil to soothe cats during periods of avoidance and stress. Other beneficial ingredients include: L-tryptophan, an amino acid involved in the production of serotonin to reduce stress and aggression. Magnesium and vitamins A, E and D3 for balanced emotions and calmer behaviour. Healthy Bites are high in protein with 33% poultry, giving the cream-filled crispy shells a delicious meaty taste at just 2 kcal per treat. They're wheat-free and contain no artificial colours or preservatives. Other ingredients: Poultry meal, Rye Flour, Canola Oil, Corn Starch, Milk Derivatives, Flavouring, L-Tryptophan, Salt, Glycerin, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Chamomile Powder, Rosemary Extract Oil, Seafoam (minerals), Lemon Balm, Ginger Oil, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Vitamin D3. Feeding Treats can be fed as a snack between meals and are suitable for cats and kittens over 12 weeks old, as directed: Cats and kittens less than 2.5kg: up to 6 bites per day. Cats over 2.5kg: 12 bites per day. Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 1,000+ Amazon reviews. Healthy Bites are said to be small enough for kittens as well as adult cats. Results are generally positive for all varieties of Healthy Bites, with owners using Serene Calming for stress-inducing events like fireworks and general nervousness. For cats with pee problems, which can be another symptom of stress, you can use in combination with Urinary Care Bites. Remember, this is not a treatment but a form of natural support. It's vital that you take your cat to see a vet for any health problems. ✓   Chamomile, lemon balm, ginger oil. ✕  Rye flour, corn starch. ✓   L-tryptophan. ✓   Magnesium and vitamins. ✓   High meat content. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Woyamay Calming Cat Chews Woyamay offers natural products designed to support pets' comfort, health and happiness. Calming Chews provide a natural daily solution to help cats feel calm and support stable behaviour patterns. They can be used during travel, changes in daily routines, noisy environments and other stressful situations. Ingredients Chews combine the flavour of chicken with a crunchy shell, and a rich cheese filling that even picky eaters can't resist. Each treat contains natural ingredients, including: Organic chamomile - soothes and relaxes nerves. L-tryptophan - supports mood and relaxation. L-theanine - reduces stress-related behaviours. Melatonin - supports sleep and reduces anxiety. They contain no artificial flavourings or added sugar and are gluten, soy and corn-free. Other ingredients: Chicken, Wheat Flour, Egg Yolk Powder, Cheese Powder, Chicken Liver Powder, Chinese Yam, Deep-Sea Fish Oil, Beef Tallow, Potato Starch, Pumpkin Powder, Brewer’s Yeast Powder, Spirulina Powder, Cranberry Powder, Yucca Powder, DL-Alpha-Tocopherol, Rosemary Extract. Shop Premium Cat Food → Feeding Feeding directions are based on 1 chew daily per 0.45 bodyweight. For kittens aged 4-6 months, this amount should be halved. Chews are not advised for kittens under 4 months. Treats may help cats to settle within 30-45 minutes and provide up to 12 hours of calm. Each bottle contains 500 chews which, for an average-sized 5kg cat, would last around 2 months. Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 100+ Amazon reviews. These tasty chews go down well with cats since they're packed with flavour, although they may not be the healthiest option with cats being lactose intolerant. Owners see a noticeable effect on cats that struggle with anxiety and nervousness, as well as stressful situations. However, it's a pricey option - while 500 chews sounds like a lot, they might not stretch far depending on the weight and size of your cat. ✓   Organic chamomile. ✕   Wheat flour, cheese powder. ✓   L-tryptophan and L-theanine. ✕   Expensive. ✓   Melatonin. ✓   Gluten, corn and soy-free. ⭐⭐⭐ AmeizPet Healthy Calm Bites AmeizPet specialises in functional pet health products including pastes, supplements and other treatments. Healthy Calm Bites are a supportive daily snack to help cats cope with busy environments, changes in routine, travel, hyperactivity, restlessness and nervousness. The crunchy outer layer and soft centre encourages cats to chew so the calming support is delivered in a natural way. Other treat products from this range are Anti-Hairball, Fresh Breath, Healthy Liver, Urinary Tract Health, Immune System and Hypoallergenic. Ingredients Treats are designed to encourage a more balanced mood with a blend of ingredients: Chamomile and valerian extract to support relaxation and emotional balance. L-tryptophan to boost serotonin and reduce feelings of aggression and stress. Other ingredients: Maize flour, wheat flour, yeast, animal fats, malt bran, dried beef, ginger, tryptophan. Feeding Cats can be fed up to 10 bites per day. Rating ⭐⭐⭐ 3 / 5 Based on 800+ Amazon reviews. Many cats find Healthy Calm Bites tasty but the calming effect has mixed opinions. They're said to be quite large, with some owners having to break them in half before feeding. Reviews are generally positive across the whole AmeizPet range, particularly the Anti-Hairball Bites. ✓   Chamomile and valerian. ✕   Maize flour, wheat flour. ✓   L-tryptophan. ✕   Large size. ✓   Odourless. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Happy Snack by Feliway Feliway offers a full range of cat wellbeing products, backed by over 25 years of research. Check out the calming diffuser range here: Feliway Reviews: Classic, Optimum and Friends Diffuser Comparison Feliway Happy Snacks have a soft, creamy texture for cats to lick during stressful situations. They also improve bonding with humans, making them perfect for rescue cats and new adoptees. Ingredients These delicious chicken-flavoured treats contain alpha-casozepine, a natural milk protein with appeasing properties that help cats to feel calm and relaxed. They're gluten-free with no added sugar, artificial colours or preservatives. While alpha-casozepine is considered to be lactose-free, the product does contain other milk products which may contain small amounts. Other ingredients: Meat and animal by-products (incl. 4% chicken), oils and fats, milk and milk products (incl. 0.5% milk protein hydrolysate with alpha-casozepine), vegetable by-products. Visit Feeding Snacks come in packs of 6 or 24 individually wrapped sachets that are perfect for a treat at home or on the go. You can feed 2 sachets daily by mixing into food, using as a topper, feeding on a spoon or straight from the packet. They're suitable for cats over 12 weeks old. Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 2,000+ Amazon reviews. Consumer testing revealed that 86% of cats love Happy Snacks, even the fussy ones! I haven't tested these due to my cats' aversion to the texture, but I've administered Zylkene Supplements which also contain alpha-casozepine as the active ingredient. They did seem to boost Simba's confidence around his bullying brother, and he loved the taste. Most owners find Happy Snacks to be effective at calming their cats, particularly during stressful events like fireworks and vet visits. Since cats naturally enjoy licking, snacks provide a good distraction for aggression-related behaviours and during the separation and reintroduction process. Sachets are easy to use, with several customers using them to sneak in medications. However, they can be messy if your cat isn't used to licky treats! ✓  Alpha-casozepine. ✕   Unknown meat/vegetable byproducts. ✓   Improves bonding. ✕   Expensive. ✓   Individual sachets. ✓   No artificial additives. ⭐⭐⭐ Zesty Paws Calming Paste for Cats Formulated by vets, Zesty Paws products are made with premium ingredients that have benefits in every bite (or lick!). The paste has shown to support calmness and wellbeing without causing drowsiness or affecting alertness. With consistent use, it can help to maintain relaxation in stressful situations and reduce symptoms of anxious behaviour such as fear, aggression, restlessness and hyperactivity. The Zesty Paws paste also comes in Anti-Hairball and Digestion formulas. Ingredients The clinically-proven ingredients include: Lactium - a bioactive peptide to maintain calmness under stressful situations. L-tryptophan - boots serotonin to reduce anxious behaviours.   Green tea extract - a natural source of L-theanine to improve focus and reduce stress-related signs. The paste is made with real fish for a great flavour. Other ingredients: Malt Extract, Vegetable Glycerin, Yeast Products (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), Yeast Extract, Lactium® Milk Protein Powder (2.7%), Hydrolysed Fish Protein, Minerals, Vitamin B1, L-tryptophan, Green Tea Extract. Feeding Zesty Paws Calming Paste is suitable for cats and kittens of all ages. For best results, directions advise feeding daily for a minimum of 4 weeks. The recommended amount is 1/3 teaspoon or a 4cm ribbon, either straight from the tube or added as a food topper. Rating ⭐⭐⭐ 3 / 5 Based on 60+ Amazon reviews. Zesty Paws Calming Paste is recommended by 9 out of 10 vets. It's effective in many cases, but not all cats will appreciate the flavour since fish has a strong taste and is hard to mask in food. It's an expensive option for long-term use. ✓   L-tryptophan and L-theanine. ✕   Strong taste. ✓   Lactium. ✕  Expensive. ✓   Real fish. ✓   Suitable for kittens. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ GimCat Relax Paste GimCat is a German-made brand specialising in high-quality health products, treats and pastes for cats. The Relax Paste has been developed in collaboration with vets and comes in handy when your cat needs extra help during changes and unexpected events, such as vet visits, travelling and fireworks. Ingredients The active ingredients are: California poppy herb and St John's wort to promote wellbeing and reduce stress. They're also natural sedatives and painkillers. L-tryptophan, known as the "happy hormone". Vitamin B complex to support nerve function and metabolism. The formula contains no added sugar, artificial colours, flavours or preservatives and is lactose-free. Other ingredients: Vegetable by-products, oils and fats, yeast (contains 1% beta-glucan), milk and dairy by-products, ground California poppy herb (0.7%), St. John’s wort (0.04%). Shop smart fountains and automatic feeders → Feeding Relax Paste is suitable for cats over one year old as a treat. It's easy to administer by feeding directly from the tube, mixing into food or adding as a topper. It's best used as a short-term treatment.   Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 1,000+ Amazon reviews. GimCat Relax Paste shows fast and effective results in many cats, particularly for car journeys and fireworks. While the paste has good palpability overall, some cats won't eat it. ✓   California poppy herb and St John's wort. ✕  Vegetable by-products. ✓   L-tryptophan. ✕   Expensive. ✓   Vitamin B complex. ✓   No artificial additives. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Woyamay Hemp Cat Calming Chews Woyamay Hemp Calming Chews help with stress-related signs such as separation anxiety, fear of unfamiliar surroundings, constant meowing and restlessness. Packed with natural ingredients, regular use of chews helps to support emotional balance so cats feel calm and relaxed. They can be used for travelling, aiding bonding and socialising. Ingredients Each soft chew contains well-known calming ingredients: Organic hemp seed powder - supports a well-nourished body for a calmer routine. Valerian root - calm behaviour and relaxation. Organic chamomile - soothes and relaxes nerves. L-tryptophan - supports mood and relaxation. L-theanine - reduces stress and related behaviours. Melatonin - supports sleep and reduces anxiety. Other stress-reducing ingredients include colostrum, organic ginger root and ashwagandha. Chews are chicken-flavoured and contain no artificial flavours, preservatives or added sugar. They're gluten, corn and soy-free. Other ingredients: Chicken Liver Powder, Sunflower Lecithin, Beef Bone Meal, Beet Pulp, Tapioca Starch, Brewer’s Yeast, Natural Vanilla Powder, Carrot Powder, Tomato Powder, Potassium Sorbate, Carrot, Celery, Cucumber, Beet, Mixed Tocopherol. Feeding Woyamay Hemp Calming Chews are suitable for cats of all ages and start working within 30-45 minutes, lasting up to 12 hours. They can be given as a daily treat, and each pack contains 200 chews for a long-lasting supply of calm. Cats up to 4.5kg: 1 chew daily Cats over 4.5kg: 2 chews daily. Feeding directions advise starting with half the suggested amount and gradually increasing to the full amount, splitting between a.m. and p.m. Rating ⭐⭐⭐ ⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 100+ Amazon reviews. Opinions on effectiveness are mixed and some cats don't like the chews, which could be down to the texture if cats prefer crunchy treats; and they're reported to have a strong smell. Woyamay Chews are soft and might be better for older cats and kittens. Some owners noticed that their cats slept better than usual in stressful situations. The price comes up as a negative, but with a 3-6 months supply, it could work out cheaper in the long-term. ✓   Hemp, valerian root, chamomile. ✕   Strong smell. ✓   L-tryptophan, L-theanine, melatonin. ✓   Gluten, corn and soy-free. ✓   No artificial additives. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ PrimaCat Cat Treats with Catnip PrimaCat offers high-quality cat food with plenty of meat and no wheat or added sugar. These soft, chewy treats are ideal for rewarding and motivating your cat, and they take a slightly different approach to kitty calmness than others mentioned. Catnip is known as a cat's "happy drug" due to inducing feelings of playfulness and relaxation, depending on their individual response. It's believed to stimulate the pheromone receptors and is completely natural and non-addictive. Ingredients PrimaCat Treats are made with tasty chicken and added catnip to support stress relief, promote healthy digestion and aid training. They contain salmon oil for a shiny coat. Treats are high in meat and grain-free with no added sugar, corn, soy or GMO ingredients. Other ingredients: Dehydrated chicken protein 35%, yellow peas, liquid vegetable starch, collagen, poultry liver gravy 5%, catmint dried 1%, salmon oil. Feeding To be fed as a treat for adult cats only. Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 100+ Amazon reviews. Many cats love the taste of PrimaCat Treats, but the calming effect is seen more in some cats than others. These are a good option if your cat responds to catnip as they may help to boost confidence as well as relax. However, some cats are immune to the substance. Related post: 15 Best Catnip Toys, Blends and Sprays This is a small bag for the price, but the high meat content and quality ingredients make it a snack that's healthy as well as delicious. Treats are quite big but can be broken into smaller pieces due to their soft texture, potentially making them last longer. ✓  High meat content. ✕   Contains peas. ✓   Catnip. ✕   Expensive. ✓   Grain-free. ✓   No corn, soy or GMOs. Information is accurate from February 2026 and may be subject to change. Feel free to get in touch if you think this article needs updating. Have you tried any of these calming treats? Did your kitty approve and were there any noticeable effects? Feel free to share any other great products that you think missed the list.

Animal welfare organisations and animal rights activists are calling on people like you to join forces in a bid to put an end to the barbaric hunting and killing of feral cats in New Zealand. Read on to learn more and find out what you can do to help. *WARNING: CONTAINS GRAPHIC IMAGARY In this article: What Is the North Canterbury Hunting Competition? Why Are Feral Cats Targeted? 2024 Cat Hunting Competition How You Can Help What Is the North Canterbury Hunting Competition?   The competition is an annual event held in New Zealand's South Island, whereby hunters (including children) are challenged to target wild pigs, deer, hares - and yes, feral cats. While the competition has sparked controversy, it raises funds for the Rotherham community, including support for teachers and pool upkeep. In 2023, a new category was announced for children aged 14 and under to hunt feral cats. The youngsters were encouraged to kill as many cats as possible, with a cash prize equivalent of £124 for whoever shot the most. Visit Participants of the event were told not to kill pets, with arguments from the Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals  stating that they wouldn't know the difference between feral, stray or domestic cats. While the competition isn't technically breaking any laws, it was cancelled after backlash and protests from animal rights activists and animal welfare groups. While many condemned the event, others defended it as protecting the country's vulnerable species. I do wonder how they'd defend using children to carry out the bloodthirsty task, growing up in a world that's already plagued with violence. Surely, we should be educating young people on the importance of empathy and respect to all creatures. Organisers of the competition claimed to have received vile and inappropriate emails, and also made the statement: " Our sponsors and school safety are our main priority, so the decision has been made to withdraw this category for this year to avoid further backlash at this time ." Well, folks - new year, new competition!   Why Are Feral Cats Targeted? Cats, both feral and domestic, are considered to be pests and a risk to New Zealand's biosecurity. From BBC News : " One biosecurity expert, Dr Helen Blackie, told Radio New Zealand that feral cats were responsible for the extinction of six bird species, as well as the decline in populations of bats, frogs and lizards. They are also known to carry the parasitic infection toxoplasmosis, a disease that has had a significant impact on New Zealand's sheep industry .” Locals have spoken of the damage that feral cats cause to the area, effects on farming; threats to native species and the spread of disease. It's estimated that there are over 2 million feral cats in New Zealand, and as they're not classified as pests in Canterbury, the situation remains unregulated. It seems that many feral cats are shot on site, and officials use a combination of poison, traps and guns to control the population. Well, New Zealand, clearly these "methods" are proving to be ineffective! Visit In their defence, organisers point out that anyone who participates in their hunts are required to abide by firearms and animal welfare laws. Apparently there are safeguards in place to ensure domestic cats aren't targeted, such as restricting hunting to outside of residential areas. Cats are said to be caught in traps to ensure they can be identified as feral and then killed with a rifle, which raises even more questions as far as children are concerned. According to animal rights activists, the argument lies in the cruel mistreatment of animals and the desensitisation of children. Credit: Network for Animals 2024 Cat Hunting Competition Unfortunately, the North Canterbury Hunting Competition is back - and it's worse than ever before. Coming to a close at the end of June, reports from the animal welfare organisation, Network for Animals , suggest that roughly 340 animals were killed - which is 100 more than last year. Just over 1,500 people took part, and around 440 were children under 14 years of age. The event raised $60,000 for the local school and community pool, while venison from the deer hunt was donated to food banks. From the Network for Animals website: " Animal Save Movement protesters attended the event, where they said they were quickly approached by young people dressed in animal costumes with the words 'Animal Slay Movement' printed on them. The group criticised the event's attempt to justify violence towards animals by claiming it was conservation ." Meanwhile, photos of the event show children holding up dead cats by their tails like trophies. Conservation or Hunger Games ? Let us know in the comments. Killing animals in a cruel hunting sport that offers cash prizes to children has been compared to a "normal way of living" in rural New Zealand, where wild animals are commonly hunted, skinned and eaten. Even if we put our diplomatic hats on and acknowledge the issues surrounding feral cats and the impact they have on endangered species, these methods of control are a heated topic of debate in a country where almost half of households own a cat. There has to be a link between this and the overpopulation of feral cats, which begs the question: should we be pointing some of the blame at the owners? How You Can Help The good news is that hunters and animal rights groups can agree on one thing: a need for more responsible cat ownership, such as neutering to prevent overbreeding and the dumping of unwanted litters. Which, let's be honest, seems to be a worldwide problem - even here in the UK. Suggestions from both sides include trap-to-neuter programmes and a change in law to ensure that domestic cats are microchipped and desexed . Preventing the spread of feral cats before it becomes an issue is a safer and more humane method of protecting New Zealand's wildlife - and the cats themselves. Network for animals, whom I've followed and donated to over the last few years, is already on the case. The organisation has sent official statements to the New Zealand authorities demanding to put a stop to North Canterbury's barbaric cat-killing competition. A petition has been signed by over 21,500 supporters - people like you and me! Statements were issued to both the mayor and government, pointing out that culling has been shown to increase feral numbers, and the most effective population control method is Trap-Neuter-Vaccine-Release (TNR). Network for Animals is calling on all animal lovers to help pile on the pressure and really make an impact. Whether that's through spreading information, sharing the organisation's social media posts, donating or emailing the New Zealand authorities directly. Details for those mentioned are readily available online. So, before anyone starts typing up the hate mail, bear in mind that education is a more appropriate long-term solution. Criticism may have won the battle, but the war is far from over! To keep up to date with progress, visit the Network for Animals website where you can follow stories, news , sign up for newsletters and more. * Network for Animals is a non-governmental, international animal welfare organisation crusading for animals around the world. Share your thoughts in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. In this article: What Is Urine Spraying? Why Is My Cat Sprayin g in the House? How to Stop Cats Urine Spraying Pheromone Products What Is Urine Spraying? Urine spraying, for the most part, is natural behaviour performed by adult cats. It's predominantly used for territorial marking and avoiding aggressive encounters with other cats, although there's limited evidence to show that an investigating cat will retreat from an area that's been marked or "claimed" by another. Urine contains pheromones and communicates information about a cat's age, sex and mating availability, amongst other things. It's common to see cats spraying against trees, bushes, fences and other areas where there may be competition with other cats. In a domestic setting, this behaviour might indicate an underlying problem. Feliway Optimum Plug-In Diffuser contains a new pheromone complex for enhanced serenity. It helps to solve common signs of stress including spraying, scratching, fear and conflict. Recommended by vets and behaviourists. Cats use many different scents to map out their environment. When they rub their cheeks against objects, they're using facial pheromones to mark areas where they feel safe and comfortable. A cat that urine sprays in the house is likely responding to stress, as surrounding themselves with their own scent helps to boost security and confidence. It's also important to recognise the difference between spraying and urinating outside the litterbox, which is more identifiable as a puddle on the floor. Reasons for this can vary from urinary tract infections and other painful conditions to external stressors, such as bullying from other cats or disliking the type of litter being used. Spraying, on the other hand, is not a litterbox problem and something that cats do separately from normal toileting. Cats will typically aim at vertical surfaces and release short bursts of urine, rather than squatting close to the ground. Their tail will be straight up in the air with a raised butt, and they sometimes make a treading motion with their back legs. You may also see the tail quivering. It's possible that cats will spray on horizontal surfaces such as an object on the floor, other cats' bedding or even clothing that smells of another cat. Spray is usually darker than normal urine but the smaller splatters can be hard to spot. Luckily for us, the pungent odour will be a dead giveaway!   Why Is My Cat Spraying in the House? Health As mentioned, certain conditions can cause cats to start urinating outside the litterbox as they generally don't cope well with pain or stress . Spraying often has other triggers which we'll delve into below, but you should always take cats for a health check-up at the first sign of abnormal behaviour to rule out medical issues. Hormones If you're wondering if both male and female cats spray, the answer is yes! Unneutered males are more likely to exhibit territorial behaviour due to high levels of testosterone, and females could be spraying to attract a mate. Spray has a much stronger odour than normal urine. While neutering doesn't eliminate the ability to spray, it significantly lowers the chances. Therefore, sterilisation is a good option for bringing harmony back to the home - as well as having many other health benefits. Environment If health is all clear then you have to rule out external factors that might be causing a cat to feel threatened, as they could be urine spraying to remind themselves to be cautions in that part of their territory. Take note of any changes that could trigger behaviour that's out of character, particularly concerning their environment. Such changes might include: Renovations or building work. Moving home. New pets, people or babies. Other cats. To emphasise the importance of scent to a cat, they have a secondary method of detecting smells in the roof of their mouth. The vomeronasal organ (aka Jacobsen's organ) consists of two ducts that connect to the nasal cavity. If you've ever seen a cat sniffing with its mouth open, it's not just pulling a funny face; it's drawing air into the ducts to "taste" scents. Some of these scents include pheromones from other cats. For anyone that hasn't seen Jackson Galaxy's My Cat from Hell show on TV, it's a great resource for those who want to understand territorial or aggressive behaviour; and more importantly, strategies and techniques for managing it. One particular episode features a kitty that keeps spraying over the same area multiple times a day, to the point that the owners had to cover the furniture in puppy training pads. The culprit? A small hole in the wall that was allowing smells from outside to seep into the room. Whatever those smells were - animal, human or something else entirely - we'll never know. Once the hole was boarded up, kitty never sprayed again, which is a prime example of how foreign smells can drive a cat nuts. Territory Cats are fiercely independent creatures, a trait inherited from their wild ancestors who had to defend their territory in order to survive. Just because cats are able to share a home doesn't mean they have to like each other! This may go unnoticed by guardians right up until breaking point, as signs of aggression can be very subtle. When you see your cat sprawling itself lazily across a doorway, it looks cute and innocent. Another, more submissive cat might see it as blocking access to important resources, forcing them to go elsewhere. These avoidance tactics reduce the risk of confrontation, as cats know better than to put themselves in danger. Whatever might be going on inside those kitty brains, vigilance is key to understanding feline behaviour and psychology. Territorial disputes are common in multi-cat homes, as well as with other neighbourhood cats and strays - which I like to call intruders because, in the eyes of your resident cat, that's exactly what they're doing. As a guardian, you can rest assured that any strays aren't getting into the house - but how's your cat supposed to know this? Location of the spraying will give a major clue as to what might be upsetting your cat. If it's around an external door, cat flap or window then there's a high chance that you have an intruding party and kitty is simply trying to warn them off. It's worth investing in an ultraviolet torch like the Eletorot UV Torch that shows urine and other stains on various surfaces. If other cats have been using your garden as a toilet then, naturally, this is going to trigger your resident furry - which is precisely the problem I had. Thankfully, my boys didn't start urine spraying in the house but it did lead to a long-standing case of redirected aggression . So too, you might be thrilled with your new £800 sofa with its abundance of foreign smells. A confident kitty may use their facial pheromones to mark it as safe before going about their day, whereas others might be triggered to ramp up the scent marking to quickly eliminate this new threat. New furniture, new partner, new pets: whatever the case may be, a gradual introduction with plenty of positive associations is more likely to go smoothly for everyone. Other cats Multiple cats sharing a household is another reason for territorial behaviour and can present in many ways, some of which we've already discussed. While strays can pose a problem outside of the home, it's also possible for bonded cats to turn on each other if there aren't enough resources to satisfy each particular kitty's requirements. Internal doorways can be problematic in multi-cat homes, or any narrow spaces where cats come into contact with each other, particularly hallways and staircases. This could apply to the litterbox itself if it's the hooded or lidded type where cats must use a doorway to enter, hence why it's important to establish if a cat is spraying or simply being denied bathroom access. Shop Pet Furniture → Our feline friends are known to block entry/exit points to resources in an effort to intimidate and, eventually, drive the other cat out of its territory. Thus, open litter trays are preferable in many cases - sometimes the problem is also the solution! Related post:   Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats How to Stop Cats Urine Spraying The domestication of cats is estimated to have begun as little as 10,000 years ago, which is approximately 20,000 years later than dogs. That's a lot of catching up to do, and the psychology of our feline friends isn't entirely understood. Humans categorise urine spraying as "problem behaviour" but there are a lot of questions as to whether it is, in fact, abnormal at all. That being said, you should never punish a cat for spraying as they won't understand what they're doing wrong. It can also increase stress and lead to further undesirable behaviour. A better solution is to try and figure out the root cause of the problem and eliminate it, so cats are left with no reason to spray. Resources Whether cats are displaying stress-related, aggressive or other destructive behaviours, the single most basic thing you can do is offer more resources to reduce competition - starting with one litter tray per cat, plus one extra in different areas of the home. If necessary, it may be an idea to separate cats to see if the spraying ceases. Each should have its own territory with food and water stations, toys and beds - including cat trees for those all-important safe spaces. Related post: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources If behaviour returns to normal then you can rule out environmental factors and work on distinguishing who the offending cat is. As mentioned, the passive-aggressive nature of cats makes bullying difficult to spot but common behaviours include blocking, stalking, staring, chasing and ambushing. Stainless Steel Litter Box has a smooth surface that prevents litter from sticking to the bottom and doesn't absorb smells. High anti-splash sides help to contain litter and are easily removed for cleaning. Victims may appear withdrawn, quieter than usual or hide to avoid the other cat. Conversely, some cats will overreact with defensive aggression such as hissing and growling whenever they feel under threat. It's crucial to monitor your cat's weight in case the bully is blocking access to food bowls. Scratch posts, mats or boards are great for providing another - and cleaner! - way of territory marking, as cats use the scent glands between the pads of their paws. Scratching also leaves visible markings to warn or alert other cats of their presence, as well as providing enrichment which in itself is a form of stress relief. Amazon Basics Cat Scratching Post stands at 80cm and includes natural jute, a sturdy base and hanging pompom - everything your cat needs at a budget price. New Additions Any new pets or people brought into the household should go through the correct introduction, especially other cats and kittens. Considering what we know about the importance of scent, cats should be given the opportunity to smell each other way before allowing visual contact. This requires rotating cats around different areas or rooms of the home in the first instance, so they can familiarise themselves with any new scents. This provides a nice neutral setting for introductions. A more in-depth look at this is covered in the separation and reintroduction process , whereby fighting cats must undergo a period of separation before being reacquainted using toys, treats and petting to create positive associations. This helps to encourage playful interactions and distract a kitty's attention away from the new stimuli. The process can be adapted to completely new cats and, though it can be time-consuming and repetitive in nature, it becomes a lot more complicated if cats have already developed a negative first impression. If you have a socially anxious kitty that takes a disliking to new humans then you can go by the same routine of leaving items of clothing in an area of the house for inspection. Be sure not to place anything on a cat's belongings such as beds or perches. How would you like to find someone's dirty socks on your pillow? Related post: 11 Essential Tips Every New Cat Owner Should Know Outdoor Cats If you suspect local or stray cats have invited themselves onto your property, it's worth investing in an effective cat deterrent . Close any curtains or blinds to block off views of outdoor cats or, alternatively, you can cover windows with paper, cardboard or self-adhesive privacy films. You only need to cover areas that cats can see through, such as lower glass panels. If your cat is persistently spraying curtains then tie them up as a further deterrent - the curtain, not that cat! Do not encourage strays by leaving out food, trash bags or an overabundance of bird feeders. Related post: How to Stop Cats Spraying and Urine Marking Outside Your Home with 8 Tips Visit Cleaning Cleaning an area where cats have urine sprayed can be problematic if not done correctly, and there are a couple of reasons for this. If the area hasn't been cleaned thoroughly and traces of scent remain, cats will sniff it out and respray the same patch as a top up of sorts. This is especially worse on carpets as urine can quickly soak through to the flooring beneath. Repetitive spraying over a long period of time may require further treatment, including removing sections of the carpet completely. Many domestic cleaners contain ammonia which, annoyingly, is also found in cat urine. Breathing in ammonia can irritate a cat's eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Pet-safe and eco-friendly cleaning products, while free of harmful chemicals, may not be strong enough to completely remove the urine scent - at least, not to a cat's sensitive nose. Related post: 8 Common Household Items That Are Dangerous or Toxic to Cats Cats Protection has extensive advice on dealing with and preventing urine spraying, as well as other stress-related behaviours. They recommend cleaning soiled sites thoroughly with a solution of warm water and 10% biological washing powder, then rinsing with clean water and allowing the area to dry. To finish off, surgical spirit can be used on suitable surfaces to remove any lingering traces of scent. There are many other simple and effective home remedies for removing urine. Enzymatic Cleaners Enzymatic cleaning products contain enzymes that break down dirt molecules and odour-causing residue including urine, vomit and soiling. What's more, you can get products that are designed specifically for neutralising pet odours. These come highly recommended to tackle urine spraying, and you're getting the best of both worlds with a formula that's tough on stains but safe and gentle to use around pets and humans. A popular choice, Simple Solution Extreme Pet Stain and Odour Remover  uses a triple strength, pro-bacteria formula that's effective on urine, faeces and vomit. Pheromone Products Pheromone products, such as those offered by Feliway , contain a synthetic version of feline pheromones in spray or diffuser forms. These are used to target stress-related behaviours including urine spraying, scratching, hiding, overgrooming and conflict. There are some pros and cons to each. Sprays can be used in problem zones to send calming messages to a kitty's brain, helping them to feel safe and relaxed. The effects can be seen within minutes but typically only last a few hours, so it's not a permanent solution. Diffusers are plugged into an electrical socket for a slow and constant release. It can take 1-4 weeks to see the full effects. Whichever version you use, pheromone products are not a cure; but a treatment to help cats alongside other changes and/or behavioural training. Related post: 10 Best Cat Calming Treats and Pastes Feliway Classic Spray contains pheromones that help to reduce common signs of stress. It can be used during major changes including renovations, travel and vet visits. Available in 20ml or 60ml bottles for use at home or on the go. If you've eliminated all of the above and still can't find a reason why your cat is urine spraying, sometimes it can help to seek advice from a behaviourist. Remember, cats are creatures of routine with an inherent aversion to change. Change is scary and a scared cat is a stressed cat. In some cases, urine spraying is an isolated incident and ceases once the trigger has been removed. For other cats, the problem might come and go depending on the stressor and the individual cat. Mentioned Products Amazon Basics Cat Scratching Post Simple Solution Extreme Pet Stain and Odour Remover Eletorot UV Torch Are you having problems with cats urine spraying? Let us know if this article helped or comment with any tips and advice of your own.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Introducing a cat into the family is an exciting journey filled with companionship, adventure and bundles of curiosity. If you're a first-time cat parent or transitioning from caring for other pets, there are some important factors to consider. With a reputation for being independent serial nappers, it's no surprise that people are unprepared for the more demanding side of cats. As highly territorial creatures that are prone to stress , problems can arise quickly if they're not given the opportunity to exhibit their natural instincts and behaviours. From nutrition and enrichment to comfort and harmony in multi-cat homes, our feline friends have some unique needs that are vital to their health and wellbeing. These essential tips will help you to navigate the joys and challenges of cat guardianship and decide whether it's the right pet for you. 11 Tips for New Cat Owners: Choosing a Species-Appropriate Diet Creating a Safe Space Scratching Opportunities Removing Household Hazards Shedding and Grooming Litterbox Hygiene Enriching Activities Establishing a Routine More Indoor or Outdoor Cats Vaccinations and Microchipping Financial Considerations Choosing a Species-Appropriate Diet Every species of animal has specific dietary needs, including humans, but cats are described as obligate carnivores, which means they require animal protein to survive. This makes them a little more complex than dogs, who've evolved to thrive on a combination of animal and plant-based foods. Start by choosing a high-quality diet based on your cat's age, health, activity level and, in some cases, breed. For example, kitten food is rich in protein and more calorie-dense for growth and energy; while seniors benefit from a diet that focuses on hydration, weight management and joint support. Edgard & Cooper Chunks in Sauce made with fresh meat and gently cooked. Grain-free with no artificial colours, flavourings or preservatives. Most cat food manufacturers offer a selection of wet food and dry food (kibble). Wet food is preferable and highly recommended by experts due to its high-moisture content, which is vital for hydration and urinary tract health; animal-based protein and a lower amount of carbohydrates . Be sure to check the ingredients list to avoid any unspecified meat by-products (the rubbish parts!). Dry food is often packed with fillers like grains and vegetables, but many opt for it due to the lower costs and longer shelf-life. However, that doesn't make it the best choice for your cat. In fact, you might find yourself forking out more on vet bills in the long-run! If your budget stretches a little further, fresh cat food companies are a great premium option that formulate tailored recipes using 100% animal protein, without all of the additives and fillers contained in commercial food. Related post: The Truth About Commercial Cat Food: What Really Goes into Your Pet's Food? Creating a Safe Space Cats communicate primarily through scent, and entering a new environment risks a sensory overload, particularly if you have other pets or noisy children. Designating a private room or area within the home provides a safe retreat until they're ready to integrate with other family members (both animal and human). You can provide a cosy bed , huts or boxes to hide in; but underbed spaces and wardrobes work just as well. Cat trees and shelves provide height advantage, which they'd use in the wild to keep a lookout for predators. Make sure you provide food, water and a litter tray nearby so they don't have to venture too far. Shop Pet Furniture → Gradually introduce your cat to different parts of the home to help them adjust at their own pace. The more secure they feel, the faster they'll settle into their forever home. To aid the process, pheromone diffusers can be used to create a safe and relaxing environment. Related post: Best Cat Calming Plug-in Pheromone Diffusers (Tried and Teste d) PAWZ Road 3-in-1 Cat Scratching Board is durable and versatile, with 3 sides and multiple angles to adapt to a cat's preferred scratching position. Cats can bat the ball nestled in the recess or play hide and seek in the hole. Scratching Opportunities It's essential to offer a variety of scratch posts, mats and boards to give cats plenty of choice as to where and how they sharpen their claws. Otherwise they'll opt for furniture, wallpaper, carpets or anything else that takes their fancy - which isn't ideal for anyone, especially if you live in rented accommodation. Cats rely on their claws for defence, hunting and marking their territory using scent glands  between the pads of their paws. They're also natural climbers, so providing an array of horizontal and vertical surfaces like cat trees and shelves encourages exercise and exploration of the environment. The more time they spend on fun activities, the less attention they'll place on destroying your home furnishings. Related post: Why Do Cats Scratch and How to Stop It? Removing Household Hazards Safety is a top priority when it comes to the curious cat. Remove hazardous items like cords; plants or flowers that are toxic to cats (e.g., lilies, daffodils); medications and small objects that can cause choking. You should also be mindful of cleaning products and fragrances that can irritate a cat's sensitive nose and respiratory system. Opt for pet-safe or plant-based cleaners that are better for the environment, too. Discover more household hazards in this detailed post: 8 Common Household Items That Are Dangerous or Toxic to Cats Other precautions you should take include securing windows and balconies to prevent escape. Statistics show that falls and traffic accidents are amongst the most common causes of injuries in cats. Shedding and Grooming Cats shed - a lot - and you'll notice their favourite lounging spots by the pile of fur left behind. If you suffer from allergies, particularly to fur or dander, then there'll be problems no matter how many lint rollers you have. Regular brushing   can help to reduce the amount of hair floating around, as well as hairball formation as cats will swallow less when grooming themselves. Short-haired cats need occasional brushing, while long-haired breeds require daily grooming to prevent matting. You might also want to invest in a decent vacuum cleaner! Litterbox Hygiene Just like humans, cats value bathroom privacy and there are so many styles of litter tray available on the market. Stainless steel is preferable to plastic as it's easier to clean and doesn't absorb smells. Typically, cats like to observe their surroundings and toileting puts them in a vulnerable position. Covered or lidded trays can obscure their view, as well as causing territorial disputes around the entrance. If one cat decides to block access then others may be put off using it at all. Stainless Steel Litter Box has a smooth surface that prevents litter from sticking to the bottom and doesn't absorb smells. High anti-splash sides help to contain litter and are easily removed for cleaning. However, this should be judged on a case-by-case basis as timid cats may appreciate the extra privacy. Make sure to check regularly for mess because enclosed trays can trap the smell. If you have limited space - apartments, for example - then you can get litterboxes disguised as furniture. Whatever style you choose, it should be scooped daily and more often if you have multiple cats. Experts recommend one litter tray per cat, plus one extra - and this goes for all of a cat's resources, including food and water bowls; beds and scratch posts. If problems arise then you might consider moving trays to a more private area or review the type of litter you're using. Options include clay, pine, wheat, paper, silica gel, clumping, non-clumping and others. Enriching Activities Cats require mental as well as physical stimulation. Wild cats and those with outdoor access spend their days hunting, climbing, chasing and exploring. You can replicate this in an indoor environment with a variety of toys and climbing areas like cat trees and shelving. Rotating toys helps to keep cats engaged as they have a short attention span and will lose interest over time. Balls, mice, feather wands, interactive toys   and catnip   are a few options, or you can save money by making your own DIY creations . Shop smart fountains and automatic feeders → Enrich cats with different sounds, smells, tastes and textures, such as toys that squeak or crinkle; cat grass and food puzzles. Feeding mats like the Bugalugs Licky Mat   feature different surface textures that encourage cats to lick and dig for food, turning eating into a playful experience. Creating a cosy window perch allows your cat to observe the outside world, birds and other wildlife. Establishing a Routine Cats are creatures of habit with impeccable body clocks. Scheduled feeding times help to reduce stress and conflict with other cats, since they know when they'll be getting their next meal. Wild cats have to rely on hunting and prey opportunities, which adds to their territorial natures. Related post: Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats Daily play and exercise are beneficial for anxiety and behavioural problems, particularly if cats are left alone for long periods of time or you work long hours. They'll learn to anticipate your return, which is great for bonding and establishing a deeper level of trust. Your cat will associate you with love, care and attention. Indoor or Outdoor Cats Indoor cats  may be a topic of debate, but giving them the most fulfilling life possible while keeping them safe and secure rests on factors such as home environment, owner lifestyle and the individual cat. Consider the following: Do you live on or near a main road? Is the neighbourhood heavily built-up with lots of traffic, noise, dogs, children and other things that could scare cats into running away or being hit by vehicles? Do you live in a small one-bed apartment or a large two-storey house? Are you able to adapt your living space to include all of the essentials that a cat needs to thrive? Are you planning on owning more than one cat and, if so, is your home big enough to accommodate them? Do you have a secure garden? Are you able to cat-proof outdoor space with fence panels, catios or other enclosures? This is a great way to prevent cats from roaming into unfamiliar or dangerous territories. You can also supervise outdoor time by walking cats on a harness and leash . Does your lifestyle allow enough time to spend playing with your cat? Despite their independence, stimulation is vital for preventing boredom that can lead to behavioural problems like anxiety and aggression , particularly with indoor cats. The age, breed, health and history of your cat will help to determine the most suitable environment. Naturally, kittens need more attention than seniors; while Bengals and Siamese are known for being extra playful and energetic. Rescue cats that have been subjected to trauma or abandonment may be better suited to quiet, single-cat homes. Vaccinations and Microchipping Cat owners in the UK face a hefty fine for not complying with microchipping laws, but this should be standard practice regardless of region. Getting your pet microchipped gives the best chance of locating them if they go missing, reducing the alarming number of strays on the streets. According to the ASPCA , microchipped pets are twice as likely to be returned if lost. Outdoor cats should also be fitted with a collar and ID tag stating the owner's name and contact number. Neutering or spaying , vaccinations, flea control, worming and annual vet check-ups are essential for keeping cats healthy and preventing long-term issues. Visit Financial Considerations Many new parents overlook the financial responsibilities associated with cat ownership. As a bare minimum, initial start-up costs include: Neutering or spaying. Vaccinations, flea and worming treatments. Microchipping. Food and water bowls. Litter trays and scoops. Bedding and cat trees. Scratch posts. Toys. You'll also need monthly supplies of food, treats and litter. If your cat has to go on a prescription diet then it can drastically increase food costs. Depending on activity levels, toys and scratchers will need replacing when worn. According to Smarter Finances , the average cost of keeping a cat in the UK is £50-£150 per month. Add onto that any unexpected vet bills and it can shoot up into the hundreds. To alleviate some of this burden, you might consider investing in pet insurance. Many plans cover emergencies and routine care; by shopping around, you can find a policy that suits your needs and budget. Planning ahead ensures you can provide consistent care for your feline friend without facing financial strain. If you're considering taking your pets abroad, this article from GoCompare is a useful resource: A Guide to Travel Insurance with Pets Visit Summary Cat ownership isn't just about welcoming a new pet into your home, but embracing a relationship that's filled with learning and growth. By recognising your cat's behaviour, you can understand their needs and preferences to create an environment where they flourish. These foundational tips will launch your journey into becoming a knowledgeable cat parent, building a relationship based on patience, love and understanding. Seeing your pet happy and healthy is one of the most rewarding experiences. Other helpful posts for new cat parents: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources How to Read a Cat's Body Language, Behaviour and Communication 20 Surprising Facts You May Not Know About Cats Mentioned Products Bugalugs Licky Mats Taoqimiao Cat Tree Tower MEOWFIA Cat Bed Cave Are you new to cat parenting? Let us know in the comments if these tips helped!

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Recommendations are based on extensive research into products, brands, customer feedback and my own reviews wherever applicable. 15 Best Catnip Toys: Cuckoo Catnip Mew & Friends Catnip Mew & Friends Catnip Spray STARROAD-TIM Edible Catnip Balls Pet Touch Catnip Fun Bubbles Aibuddy Catnip Fish Chew Toy Bojafa 3 Pack of Catnip Toy s 6 Pack of Catnip Mouse Toys SUPERFA 3 Pack of Catnip Toys Catstages Krazy Kale Catnip Chew Toy More Natural Catnip Chew Rope Pack of 3 KONG Feather Catnip Mouse Speedy Panther Caterpillar Catnip Toy Yeowww Banana Singles Cat Toy Aidiyapet Cat Toys for Indoor Cats Most Recommended View ⇨ Yeowww Banana Singles Cat Toy 🏅 Top Recommended View ⇨ Cuckoo Catnip 🥇   Best Dried Blend View ⇨ 6 Pack of Catnip Mice 🥈   Best Value View ⇨ SUPERFA 3 Pack of Catnip Toys 🥉   Best for Kittens Catnip comes in many forms, from dried blends and sprays to stuffed toys and edible balls! Most kitty parents will recognise the effects of this magical substance: nuzzling, licking, sniffing, rolling - not forgetting about those zoomies, which can be as entertaining for us as it is for them. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a herb from the mint family that contains the active ingredient, nepetalactone. When sniffed, this binds to a cat's olfactory receptors (smell detectors) that send signals to an area of the brain that's responsible for sexual behaviour. It's thought that the brain interprets them as pheromones , which triggers a rush of endorphins that makes cats happy and excitable. Visit Catnip is often used to aid interaction with toys, stimulate playful behaviour, provide enrichment , promote relaxation and reduce stress . Effects are temporary but not all cats respond to the substance - in fact, studies show that around 30% of cats are immune. Kittens under 6 months are usually unresponsive because their brains aren't developed enough to react to nepetalactone, so it's best to wait until they're a bit older. Want to know more about catnip and its more potent competitor, silvervine? Check out this pawsome post: Silvervine vs Catnip: Which Is Best for Cats? ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Cuckoo Catnip (50g) Cuckoo Catnip is a natural, non-addictive way to promote exercise, play and relaxation for your kitty. It can boost mood to reduce nervousness and help with depression, anxiety and boredom. This strong, organic catnip is imported from Canada and packaged in the UK with resealable and recyclable bags. The catnip is ground and filtered into a fine blend and comes with a "no stalk" guarantee. Stalks can be a choking hazard and don't contain the active ingredient, nepetalactone. Only buds and leaves are used to ensure the blend is as strong as it can be. Cuckoo Catnip is generally very effective on cats, with a strong smell and potency; however, since it's more powdery than other brands, it may cause cats to sneeze. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 3,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Strong catnip. ✕ Powdery blend can be messy. ✓ No stalks. ✕ Some report a minty smell. ✓ Long-lasting. ✓ Large bag. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Mew & Friends Catnip (30g) Mew & Friends Catnip releases the "feel good" hormones to encourage play, exercise and reduce boredom and anxiety. 10% of all profits are donated to animal shelters. Catnip is 100% natural, organic and sustainably produced in the UK for extra freshness, hence the slightly higher price tag. Mew & Friends is a family-run business that grows their own strain of high-potency catnip on Grade 1 agricultural land, free of nasty pesticides. Everything is handpicked, naturally dried and hand-sifted to ensure large stalks are removed. Packaging is environmentally friendly with resealable paper bags. While I haven't tested this catnip - or many others due to my unresponsive cats - I can speak to the quality of Mew & Friends having bought other products from the company. That being said, it helps to stimulate many cats into becoming more playful and chilled out. Check out my review of Mew & Friends Silvervine Powder for more. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 3,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Sustainable UK farming. ✕ Strong aroma might put some cats off. ✓ Fresh and organic. ✕ More expensive than other brands. ✓ Finely ground.   ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Mew & Friends Catnip Spray (60ml) Mew & Friends Catnip Spray can energise most cats by providing a burst of playfulness, usually followed by relaxation and contentment. For endless fun, shake well and spray on cat toys, beds and scratchers to encourage interaction. Another natural and organic product from the UK-based brand, Mew & Friends Catnip Spray contains a well-balanced mixture of water and a small percentage of catnip oil. This ensures the spray isn't too strong and safe to use, while providing instant attraction wherever it's applied. As with the dried blend, many cats feel the effects of this spray but it's reported to be less effective overall. Some people complain about the awkward shape of the bottle and leakage. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 1,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Grown in the UK. ✕ Not as strong as dried blend. ✓ Safe and effective. ✓ A little goes a long way. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ STARROAD-TIM Edible Catnip Balls These 3-in-1 Catnip Balls are made from natural plant fibres without any additives or preservatives. Flavours include catnip, insect gall fruit, silvervine and cat sugar (isinglass) to meet the different tastes of cats while stimulating play. It promotes appetite, aids digestion and the excretion of furballs; as well as cleaning teeth and reducing dental plaque. The double-sided tape design makes it easy to stick to smooth surfaces such as walls, tiles or glass; and balls rotate 360° so cats can lick from all angles. It comes with dust-proof covers and is available in multiple colours. I bought STARROAD-TIM Catnip Balls to offer my boys a bit more variety, but it still wasn't enough to tempt them. The only flavour they entertained was the cat sugar, which sticks on separately and looks like a giant nipple - maybe that was the appeal! Annoyingly, the "nipple" kept falling off and rolling down the stairs where I'd stuck the toy as a distraction to stop the cats from fighting on the staircase. You could say the distraction worked - just not in the way I'd hoped. Apart from that, the actual base didn't budge so it would definitely withstand more excitable cats. You can also purchase the catnip balls separately instead of one long strip, so if your kitties are responsive (unlike mine) then I highly recommend this fun and unique toy. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 3,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Choice of flavours. ✕ Cats may get bored. ✓ Many health benefits. ✕ Sugar falls off. ✓ Easy to use. ✓ Hygienic. ⭐⭐⭐ Pet Touch Catnip Fun Bubbles (2 x 120ml)   Pet Touch Catnip Bubbles contain natural catnip oil for stimulating playful behaviour and encouraging interactive play between cats and their owners. Bubbles are completely safe and non-toxic for cats and kittens - although, given what we know about kittens, they're more likely to respond to the bubbles themselves than catnip. It's only recently that I stumbled across catnip bubbles, despite my boys' excitement at normal bubble blowers - which is a surprise in itself, given that they're a couple of wimps that run away from their own shadows. The addition of catnip is a great play incentive, although it's more likely derived from catmint going off the minty aroma; but more than that I can appreciate the safety aspect. No more worrying about bubbles going into the cats' mouths or licking residues off the floor! It's fair to say that not all cats will be interested in the catnip aspect, given how mild it is. However, if your kitty likes to jump and catch then the Pet Touch bubble blower will provide endless fun. ⭐⭐⭐ 3 / 5 Based on 100+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Non-toxic. ✕ Strong smell. ✓ Interactive play. ✕ May scare cats. ✓ 2 bottles. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Aibuddy Catnip Fish Chew Toy (4 Pack) Aibuddy Catnip Fish Toys are made from crystal fabric (sofas, bed sheets, etc) which is durable and bite resistant, ideal for chewing and scratching while protecting a cat's claws. Four brightly coloured fish are stuffed with PP Cotton, strong organic catnip and a bell for extra stimulation. Each fish measures 7.7in x 1.9in and is perfect for cats of all ages to grapple and bunny kick, as well as being great for teething kittens. Aibuddy Catnip Fish seem to go down well with cats that enjoy playing with soft toys, but opinions are mixed on durability. A lot of customers agree that the catnip isn't very potent but this doesn't detract from the entertainment factor. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 1,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Durable fabric. ✕ Loses potency quickly. ✓ Ideal for cats and kittens. ✓ Good size. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Bojafa 3 Pack of Catnip Toys These soft toys with an ultra cute design come in three bright colours and are just the right size for tossing into the air, grabbing and nuzzling. Durable cotton linen is breathable to allow cats to smell the catnip easily, and it has a slight texture to aid with teeth cleaning. Stuffed with soft PP Cotton and natural catnip, this is a safe and healthy boredom breaker for cats. I received a couple of Bojafa Catnip Toys as freebies with another product, which were initially ignored until I sprinkled them with silvervine. Apart from the odd mouse, my boys have never played with soft toys! To see Drax throwing these around was hilarious, even if it wasn't down to the catnip. Toys have a little bit of weight and a small tail to get a really good swing. Customers appreciate the toys' suitability for cats of all ages and sizes but say there's not a great deal of catnip, and it wears off fast. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 6,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Cute and simple design. ✕ Low catnip content. ✓ Durable. ✓ Good for teeth. Shop pet supplies 30% off orders over £39 with code UKNEW30 →  Click to accept 100 coupon bundle →  Click to accept ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 6 Pack of Catnip Mouse Toys This bundle pack of mice come in assorted colours and styles to attract a cat's attention. Made from plush and cotton with cloth eyes that won't fall off or risk accidental swallowing. Mice are filled with catnip to eliminate boredom, boost mood, provide endless fun and a healthy outlet for natural hunting instincts. The small size of these mice makes them great for batting, tossing and chasing like real prey. However, they may not withstand a lot of rough play and carry a risk of cats ripping the tails off - always check toys for missing parts to prevent accidental swallowing. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 70+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Potent catnip. ✕ Tails might come off. ✓ Good for chasing. ✕ Small and delicate. ✓ Ideal for kittens. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ SUPERFA 3 Pack of Catnip Toys SUPERFA Catnip Toys are designed to feel like a real fuzzy tail to unleash the hunter within and help cats to chase, catch, grapple and gnaw. Made from soft plush and filled with PP Cotton, catnip and crinkle paper for an extra crackle. Toys are safe for cats of all ages but made specifically for kittens, which means they're less durable and not suitable for aggressive cats. Remember, kittens under 6 months may not respond to catnip but that doesn't mean they won't enjoy this toy - in fact, many owners state that their cats love to grab and cuddle them! They're durable even when gnawed on, but timid kitties may not like the crackling sound inside. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 600+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Designed for kittens. ✕ Noisy. ✓ Crinkle paper for stimulation. ✕ Not suitable for aggressive cats. ✓ Large size. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Catstages Krazy Kale Catnip Chew Toy Bring out the hunter in your cat with the Krazy Kale, perfect for batting, swatting and chewing. The toy is stuffed with catnip for an irresistible bite, with a crackly centre and mesh material that gently cleans teeth by removing soft plaque and tartar. Bright colours and additional feathers help to redirect kitty's behaviour away from furniture. I bought Catstages Krazy Kale as yet another attempt to entertain my lazy cats, for the simple reason that Drax likes the sound of crinkle balls and Simba occasionally plays with feathers. Of course, the "krazy-ness" didn't rub off on them, but this is still a worthy contender. The mesh material is soft but thick, with long fluffy feathers and a nice crackle when pressed - it's just a shame I was more excited about it than the cats! Other customers praise its durability, apart from the feathers which can be pulled off; and the toy being a little large for small cats. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 1,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Feathers and crinkle paper. ✕ Feathers come loose. ✓ Cleans teeth. ✓ Eye catching. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Natural Catnip Chew Rope Pack of 3 Chew Ropes are ideal for teething kittens and adult cats, with enticing textures and tassels that help to turn dental hygiene into an enjoyable activity. Soft, colourful ropes are made from natural cotton and include a hanging gall fruit from the silvervine plant for extra attraction. They measure 27 inches each. Toys are packaged with a catnip pouch to infuse them with a scent that's irresistible to cats. They're designed to encourage gnawing and chewing without damaging furniture, providing a safe and hassle-free playtime. Cats can play at their own leisure or you can wiggle and dangle ropes for a real snake-like experience. Customers describe Chew Ropes as being durable for hours of play, but occasionally mention that the tassels and gall fruit fall off. While they keep cats entertained, it's mainly down to the smell of catnip so the initial excitement may wear off. Sprinkling or rolling the ropes in some new catnip prior to playtime will help to extend usage. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 200+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Durable. ✕ Tassels come off. ✓ 3 colourful ropes. ✕ Requires extra catnip. ✓ Gall fruit. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ KONG Feather Catnip Mouse The KONG Feather Mouse is made from premium scratch-resistant plush and comes with a vial of North American catnip. The shape is perfect for cats to carry around in their mouths, with realistic-looking feathers for extra stimulation. The mouse can be refilled with catnip to keep it fresh and full of scent so cats never get bored. Four-legged customers of all ages love to fetch and carry this little mouse, and while the body is durable, some say the feathers don't last long. It's available in different animal styles to suit your kitty's preferences. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 1,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Refillable catnip. ✕ Feathers come out. ✓ Realistic feathers. ✓ Small for carrying. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Speedy Panther Caterpillar Catnip Toy   Transform your cat's playtime with this catnip-infused caterpillar toy. It has a plush, bite-resistant design with a shaggy texture that cats love to paw and grab, as well as helping to clean teeth and massage the gums. The soft but durable construction is stuffed with cotton and crinkle paper, and it also features a hanging gall fruit. Speedy Panther Caterpillar is designed to stimulate multiple senses to keep cats engaged and encourage self-play. It's suitable for all ages and helps to satisfy natural hunting instincts while providing a safe outlet for playful behaviour. Customers give positive results for cats of all ages, from small kittens to older cats. However, the caterpillar is reported to be smaller than expected and, as always, the gall fruit doesn't last long before being ripped off! ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 400+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Contains crinkle paper. ✕ Smaller than expected. ✓ Gall fruit. ✓ Cleans teeth. ✓ Suitable for all aged cats. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Yeowww Banana Singles Cat Toy This 7-inch banana might look like any other cat toy, but what makes it unique is that it's filled with nothing but 100% organic American catnip - no cotton or polyester fillings. The Yeowww Banana is made from heavy duty cotton and coloured using vegetable-based dyes that are natural and non-toxic. This premium product is sure to put the kitten back into any old puss. Cats love the curve and size, which make it perfect for grabbing and bunny kicking. However, the material is said to be a little thin and easy to tear the stitches open. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 29,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ 100% catnip filling. ✕ Easily torn. ✓ Safe and non-toxic. ✓ Suitable for all aged cats. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Aidiyapet Cat Toys for Indoor Cats This interactive toy pack contains 1 x hanging catnip toy, 1 x hanging ball/feather toy and 1 x hanging mouse toy with bell - talk about versatile! Toys vary in size from small to medium, perfect for cats and kittens, and are made from non-toxic material that's safe to gnaw and chew. When hung they spin, flutter, swing and bounce to trigger natural hunting instincts and keep cats engaged for hours of fun. As with all hanging toys, these are best offered under supervision and removed when not in use to ensure excitable kitties don't get tangled. Furthermore, some customers say the string snaps; but it's easy to install on the correct type of doorframes and provides hours of entertainment. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 200+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Diverse. ✕ Elastic might break. ✓ Includes 3 toys. ✕ Needs supervision. ✓ Interactive self-play. I hope you enjoyed these catnip recommendations - there are so many exciting options to choose from! Catnip is one of the hardest products to review with unresponsive cats, especially non-playful cats like my two couch potatoes. For those that do go crazy for catnip, there's so much variety that narrowing it down to these few will, hopefully, help out other kitty parents. If you're unsure about your cat's stance on catnip or can't seem to find "the one" then choosing a toy that most resonates with their play preferences will help to peak their interest. Source and origin of catnip helps to determine its potency, and customer testimonials are priceless. You can also use pointers in this article as to what makes a great catnip toy and some of the different benefits. Happy shopping! Information is accurate from February 2026 and may be subject to change. Feel free to get in touch if you think this article needs updating. Have you tried any of these catnip toys? Do you have another recommendation or think any great products missed the list? Let us know in the comments!

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Drax playing with his homemade teaser wand - a nice shot of his molars, too! 4 Types of DIY Cat Toys: The Stuffed Sock Cardboard Box Huts Homemade Teaser Wand Treat Dispenser These budget-friendly DIY cat toys are designed to be quick and easy to make at home for the busy cat mum or dad. These are hard times we're living in, and this how-to guide couldn't be simpler - which is cats all over. They may be complex creatures, but when it comes to play we have to appreciate their simplicity. What else do you see going crazy over a piece of string or a cardboard box? The most common types of cat toys  range from mice to wands and more expensive or battery-operated toys. With indoor cats  becoming more common in this ever-changing world, the amount people are spending on their pets increases with it, and the market has to cater for this. Simba cautiously inspecting the new feather wand. If your cats are anything like mine - that is, flushing 30 quid's worth of entertainment down the drain in favour of a scrunched up sweetie wrapper, then it's time to get creative with some DIY cat toy ideas. Most of the materials needed for these homemade cat toys can be found around the house without spending a penny; and as proud cat parents, I'd be surprised if you didn't have at least a couple of cat balls readily available for modification. Using recycled or repurposed materials makes them eco-friendly, too. "Stuffed sock" measures approximately 15cm x 5cm. The Stuffed Sock Materials Sock or tights. Cushion stuffing. Paper - I like brown packing paper because it's soft but any type will do. Cat balls - plastic, jingly, crinkly or whatever your cats prefer. If you want to spend a bit more, this 35 Pcs Cat Ball Se t from Amazon has a great variety. Catnip (optional). Soft cat toys can be simple to make with no sewing required, and they're great for adding catnip or silvervine . You can use a sock to stuff or cut the feet off old tights like I did. Johnson's Catnip Spray contains oil from the dried leaves of catmint. It can be applied to bedding, toys, scratch posts or anywhere you want to encourage some kitty interaction. Drax prefers tights because the material is thinner, it's fun to scratch and he has a fetish for - well, anything that smells of feet - but nylon is especially fusty. Kind of gross but some humans have been known to pay good money for the pleasure! Drax loves his crinkle balls, but you can add heaver ones for a bit more weight. Steps Tear off a couple of strips of paper and scrunch into balls. Whatever size you make them will depend on the sock and how big you want the toy to be. My cats would be scared of anything too imposing, hence why the example pictured is on the smaller side. Have fun and play around with whatever works best, you can always take out and restuff if necessary. Start filling the sock with stuffing and add some of the scrunched paper, this gives it some texture and sound. Sprinkle as much or as little catnip as desired, then add more stuffing and your chosen ball in the centre. Repeat this process on the other side, alternating stuffing with paper, then tie off the sock and voila! If a knot is difficult then use scissors to make two 1-inch cuts down either side of the sock and tie the flaps together. That's all there is to a DIY soft cat toy, and remember the golden rule: there are no rules! If you want to add a second ball, more/less paper, make it softer or firmer then go ahead. Cats will love to grip, bat and toss around this catnip kicker. Looking for a quality, potent catnip? Check out these top recommended catnip blends and sprays . Add as many windows or "peepholes" as you like in your DIY cardboard cat hut. Cardboard Box Huts Cardboard boxes come in so many sizes that the possibilities are vast, and what cat parent doesn't have a constant supply of boxes cluttering up the hallway? Or maybe that's just me - thanks, Amazon and zooplus! I've mentioned it a lot in previous posts but in case you missed it, cats love to stalk things - including each other. So, sharpen the scissors and let's turn that boring box into an exciting cat fort. Materials Cardboard box, preferably big enough for kitty to hide or sit in - see the pictured examples. Pen or pencil. Box cutter or scissors. Simba was straight in his cardboard hut - remember too that wimpy cats love to hide. Design 1 (Large Hut) Cut the base off your box by removing the flaps, leaving four walls and a "roof". Mark a doorway and windows wherever you want, however big or small - you can also play with different shapes. I added a square window at the front, a circular one at the back and a lower one at the side to make it more fun with alternating heights. In the wild, prey would be scuttling around shrubbery and undergrowth so it's natural for cats to hunt at ground level. Once finished, turn the box upside down, decorate as desired and you're ready to go. Use anything from your homemade feather wand to bits of string to poke through the gaps and tantalise your kitty. If the box is strong enough then you can use a screwdriver to make some peepholes in the roof. Just bear in mind that if you have heavier cats then they risk going straight through it - amusing for humans, not so fun if there happens to be a playmate underneath! Two simple DIY cat toys in one! Design 2 I call this the "truck", a shallow box that kitty can sit in with multiple holes to stick its paws or toys through. Remember to size it up first, I often underestimate my cats but Drax is all fur and will squeeze into anything. These designs can cost anything up to £20 online and come with replaceable scratching boards to put in the bottom. I bought the Conlun Scratcher Box which is what gave me this idea, but you can save a lot of money by adapting a cardboard box and picking up a cheap scratcher from sites like AliExpress or Temu. Cat scratchers made from high-density corrugated cardboard which is durable and wear-resistant. Cats can satisfy their scratching instincts without causing damage to furniture. Scratchers come in various shapes and are comfy to lie on. Following the same steps as design 1, remove the top flaps instead of bottom ones so kitty can climb inside (I left the sides because my cats love to stalk around the outside of boxes, too). Simply cut out a few pokey holes and let playtime begin - simple! Easy DIY teaser wand with a combination of ribbons and wool. Homemade Teaser Wand Teaser wands are a kitty classic and can be made at home with a variety of materials, from feathers to string or any type of fabric you have available. You can even refurbish old tatty wands where cats have destroyed the teasers or keep the handles to reuse - more paws up for the environment. Materials Fabric, ribbon, string, wool or feathers. Any of these can be picked up at a pound shop or local craft store, but this Pack of 50 Pheasant Feathers are natural, colourful and non-toxic for cats. Wooden dowel (approx 30cm x 1cm) or recycled wand. Glue - a hot glue gun works best as glue is non-toxic, but be sure to check the manufacturer's guide. Elastic band. Twine. Kitty bell (optional). I kept the teaser sparse because - yep, you guessed it - too much makes it look like a scary monster. String/Wool/Ribbon Teaser Cut your chosen material into 15cm-30cm lengths and loop over about 2cm of an elastic band. You can add as much or as little as you want, depending on how thick you want the teaser to be. Tie the remainder of the band around the end of the wand/dowel to secure - no glue required. I finished it off with an extra piece of ribbon to cover the band, just because it's aesthetically pleasing. This may be the most time-consuming option but it's simple, effective and didn't cost me a penny - ka-ching! *Only use toys with small pieces under supervision, and check teasers regularly for loose parts that could become a choking hazard if swallowed. Use different types of feathers for texture. Feather Wand Gather 10-15 feathers of varying colours and/or sizes into a bunch and hot glue the tips together. Use a small blob of glue to attach feathers to the end of the wand and finish by wrapping them together with twine to ensure they're secure, adding a bit of glue along the way to keep it from unravelling. You could use duct tape if preferred, but my kitties are more likely to chew that than the feathers. For an extra jingle, thread on a small bell before tying off the twine (optional). Fabric DIY cat teaser, aka the duster. Fabric Teaser This is so easy to make because you can use any kind of material you have lying around: dishcloths, flannels, old T-shirts or even another sock. 20cm x 15cm section with 1cm strips. As a general guide, cut out a 20cm x 15cm section of fabric and make 1cm-wide strips, leaving about an inch at the top all the way along. Dab your glue of choice along the top (if you don't own a glue gun then a strong fabric glue should work) then wrap it around the end of the dowel. Leave to dry and let playtime commence - you can even whack off a few cobwebs in the process! Homemade treat or kibble dispenser. Treat Dispenser Materials Toilet/kitchen roll or plastic water bottle. Paper. Elastic bands. Scissors. Treats or kibble. Adjust difficulty levels by making more or less holes. Steps Using a pair of scissors or a craft knife, poke some randomly spaced holes in your cardboard tube or bottle. Holes should be big enough for the treats to fall through, but not so wide that they pour out as this defeats the purpose! The more holes, the easier the puzzle will be. If using a plastic bottle, ensure there are no sharp edges by cutting off any points. Cut 2 squares of paper large enough to wrap over the ends of the cardboard tube and secure one side with an elastic band (I used hair bobbles). You can skip this step if using a bottle. Fill the tube with treats or kibble, then cover the other end with paper and secure. For bottles, simply screw on the lid. Place on the floor and watch kitty bat it around to knock out the tasty snacks! While puzzles are great for enrichmen t and mental stimulation, some cats might not react to them in the first instance. It's perfectly safe to sprinkle a small amount of catnip inside the dispenser. If you don't have catnip, try scattering some treats around the toy to encourage interaction or leave it near their regular food station. Related post: How to Play with Cats of All Ages: Motivation Tips and Tricks There you have it: 4 types of DIY cat toys that are cheap and easy to make - in less than 10 minutes each. It can also double up as crafting time with the kids in a fun and rewarding family experience. We think that's rather pawsome! Mentioned Products Allazone 35 Pcs Cat Ball Set 50 Pcs Pheasant Feathers Conlun Cat Scratcher Box with Scratching Board Have you tried these cheap and easy DIY cat toys? Would you like to see any other ideas? Let us know in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Head to my TRIED AND TESTED top 10 tips for how to change a cat's food: Mix Old Food with New Layer Foods Mash and Heat Add Treats or Toppers Encourage Tasting Offer Different Flavours and/or Textures Use Clean, Suitable Bowls Make Sure Cats Are Hungry Avoid Creating Food Aversion Feed Separately from Other Cats Also in this article: Can New Food Cause Vomiting and Diarrhoea? More How Long Does It Take Cats to Adjust to New Food? Can Normal Cats Eat Another Cat's Prescription Food? Is your cat refusing to eat its new food? Do you have a bin overflowing with half-empty sachets and tins? Are you spending a fortune on prescription diets with so much waste that you might as well be flushing money down the toilet? Changing a cat's food can be a challenge for fussy eaters, as I discovered when my boy, Drax, was diagnosed with having crystals in his wee and I had to switch him onto a urinary diet. This can be especially problematic in multi-cat households with a Mr or Miss Greedy in the mix - if kitty won't eat its new food then one of its housemates will! Specialist diets are the most common reason for making the transition, but these tasty tips can be applied to any type or brand of food that you want to start feeding your cats. For tips on raw feeding, you might want to check out fresh food companies like KatKin   who offer personalised advice. Related post: Fresh Raw and Cooked Cat Food: Tailor-Made Nutrition Sent to Your Door! These 10 strategies are guaranteed to encourage cats to try new food - sometimes getting over that first hurdle is all it takes. If you're thinking that cats will eat anything if they're hungry enough, you clearly don't know cats. One of the main causes of anorexia seen in catteries and shelters is not giving them the right food - that is, food they're not used to eating or simply don't like. While it never hurts to get a health check-up, especially where cats seem to have lost their appetite or gone off their usual food, oftentimes they won't eat simply because they're not hungry. Mix Old Food with New Before we start mixing, any abrupt changes to a cat's diet can lead to vomiting and/or diarrhoea. Cats are sensitive creatures and new food should be introduced gradually in small amounts to minimise stomach upsets. If sickness persists then go back to their current food until it's cleared up or try another brand. You could first try offering a few spoonfuls of regular and new food in separate bowls. If your cat refuses the new food then it's time to start mixing. Visit * It's generally advised against mixing different brands of specialist or veterinary prescribed foods based on the ingredients and how they function together. In order for diets to work, it has to be done consistently in the same way as administering medication. Do your research, stick to manufacturers' guides and find a balance that works for your cat. Days 1-2: Feed 3/4 of regular food with 1/4 of new food. Days 3-4: Increase amounts to half and half. Days 5-7: Increase further to 1/4 regular and 3/4 new. Day 8 onwards : Feed only new food. The aim is that by the end of week one, the transition to new food is complete; but this is just a guideline demonstrating the MINIMUM amount of time it should take. In Drax's case, this timeframe wasn't only optimistic but completely far-fetched. I had to use much smaller ratios than those stated above, less than a spoonful of new food per portion to begin with. Taste doesn't matter much to cats as they only have around 470 taste buds, but there's no deceiving the feline nose! Don't be afraid to start with just a couple of chunks or kibble pieces - the process will be longer and there'll be greater wastage - but your cat will be happier in the long-run. Layer Foods You can use this in combination with mixing, depending on how fussy (or greedy) your kitty is. Layering new food on top of regular food forces cats to eat through it in order to get to the good stuff. Not all will fall for this trick, but encouraging them to approach and inspect their bowl is a good starting point. Mash and Heat If you're feeding wet food, mix with a splash of warm water and heat for a few seconds in the microwave. Bringing out the aroma helps to make food more appetising to a cat's incredible sense of smell, and in the wild they'd be munching on fresh prey rather than something at room temperature. Apologies to my fellow veggies out there, but if you don't like it then don't get a cat! Grain-free Cosma Jelly Snacks come in single servings for moderation and to lessen wastage. Includes tasty chicken, tuna or salmon in a light jelly. Add Treats or Toppers Bury treats in the food or use a topper. These usually consist of dried sprinkles or a paste/jelly that comes in individual sachets, which can be given as a snack or drizzled over food. Drax enjoys these Cosma Jelly Snacks that come in a variety of flavours including chicken, tuna and salmon - although he does have a habit of licking it off the top and leaving the rest. Another good option, Ciao Churu Treat Tubes are available in a mixture of chicken or seafood recipes. Both are best for wet food as they have the same texture, which also matters to cats. If you're looking for the option of a dry food topper, these Cat Sprinkles are available in chicken, chicken-liver and turkey. If, like me, you have a sneaky topper scoffer then you can start mixing it into the food or offer it as a reward after eating. Encourage Tasting Wipe or smear a little bit of wet food onto your cat's paw (or crumble up some dry food and make a paste with a drop of water). This will encourage them to lick it off while grooming to get that initial first taste out of the way. I also used my finger to dab some food onto Drax's lips, but only attempt this if you trust your cat - and more importantly, if kitty allows it! Nine times out of ten he'd eat the rest, even if it was just a few mouthfuls. Offer Different Flavours and/or Textures Offer a variety of textures and flavours, wherever possible. Rotate every other day to avoid boredom, but not too often or else they'll soon learn that if they refuse to eat one thing then something different will take its place. This may be difficult with specialist diets because the range of flavours is, to put it bluntly, crap. Most urinary food comes in a choice of chicken or salmon regardless of brand. How would you like to eat the same two meals every day, Mr Purina? If companies are going to charge a fortune for their products, at least make them appealing. Most brands have both wet and dry food available, as well as different textures such as pâté which offers some variety. Thankfully, Drax will scoff almost any kibble going once he's adapted to the new tastes and smells. It's also worth highlighting again the importance of texture: that is, food that's too sloppy, too dry, too crunchy, too soft, large chunks or small chunks. Drax only started eating his urinary food when it was mashed into the size of minced meat, and both of my boys go for smaller kibble pieces. Cats have preferences, too! Use Clean, Suitable Bowls As obvious as it sounds, use a clean bowl for every mealtime so there are no lingering pongs - this will turn cats off even more. If someone served you a mouldy banana then you're not going to look at bananas in the same way for a good few days. In fact, why not blow your kitty's mind by offering a different shape or style of bowl? Wide, shallow dishes are best to avoid whisker fatigue; and raising it off the ground helps to reduce neck strain. A comfy kitty will be more inclined to eat, and a new bowl may provide a distraction from putting the same food down. Some cats prefer to have their food and water bowls kept apart, so you can try separating them. Set of 3 cat food bowls made from quality, non-toxic melamine. Bowls have a shallow design and tilted angle to prevent whisker fatigue, with anti-skid silicone pads underneath. Make Sure Cats Are Hungry Cats are more likely to eat when they're hungry, such as after a play session or set mealtimes. More often than not, they'll pester for food out of boredom or just because they can. No grazing and no naughty snacks! To keep this momentum going, offer smaller portions to keep kitty coming back for more. This will mean more regular feeding, but it's a temporary measure and may work better for fussy eaters. Avoid Creating Food Aversion Food aversion can be caused by forcing cats to eat or starving them into submission, both of which create negative associations with food. Never try to physically restrain or syringe-feed a cat because, chances are, you'll be the one that suffers. With the exception of medical intervention, and unless your kitty is facing a life-or-death situation, there's no reason why you should be force-feeding an animal. Take away uneaten food rather than leaving it to go stale - that's gross for everyone. Cats will be fine without food for 12 hours, but remember that just because they've built up an appetite doesn't mean they'll eat whatever's put in front of them. Leaving them for days at a time poses a serious health risk, so if they're refusing to budge then it's best to reset and start over. Feed Separately from Other Cats As touched on previously, if you have a shy cat or one that's bullied by greedy companions, give it a private room to eat at its own pace. Fortunately, Simba wouldn't touch wet food with a thirty-foot barge pole so there was never any competition in our house. He's extremely particular about his kibble too, although he did develop a liking for Drax's urinary food! Can New Food Cause Vomiting and Diarrhoea? Vomiting and/or diarrhoea after eating can happen for a number of reasons, particularly where new diets are concerned. Sometimes food doesn't agree with a cat's sensitive stomach, but the more common cause is that it's been introduced too quickly. A gradual transition allows the digestive system to adjust to unfamiliar nutrients over a number of days or weeks. Vomiting can also be a result of cats eating too fast, if they're in competition with other housemates or particularly fond of their new food - which is great for you, but not so much for kitty! Poor ingredients can be a factor with some cheaper brands, so be sure to choose a quality and nutritionally-balanced diet. This is the equivalent to humans eating a freshly-cooked meal in comparison to processed junk. Food intolerance and allergies can also upset a cat's stomach, in which case it's best to try a different brand. Most issues can be solved with a temporary return to old food until vomiting stops and poop returns to normal. Blood work and other tests can help to diagnose any allergies, intolerances, bacteria or other things that may be causing sickness in cats. If vomiting or diarrhoea persists for more than 48 hours, consult a vet for advice. Related post: How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress How Long Does It Take Cats to Adjust to New Food? While the minimum amount of time it should take cats to transition to new food is one week, the maximum time is more difficult to predict and will depend on your cat's resistance levels and gut sensitivity. Allow at least 14 days if your cat is being fussy, as it may be feeling unwell without the obvious signs of vomiting or diarrhoea. We've all eaten something that didn't agree with us and, in some cases, never looked at that food in the same way again. Shop Premium Cat Food → Get 20% off your first order over £20 Code: CATMUMJOURNAL20 It also depends on how big a change the diet is: for example, swapping dry food for wet food is more likely to create aversion IF your cat is particularly fussy. Try to keep textures and flavours the same or similar to old food in the first instance, and if this has no effect then switch things up by offering something different. Be prepared to give kitties at least 3-4 weeks to adjust, although this is by no means a set timeframe. Introducing new food is more likely to go smoothly if taken slowly - in our case, four weeks was closer to four months. Even now, Drax would rather eat a regular meal to his urinary diet; and I'm still working on getting Simba off the kibble! Can Normal Cats Eat Another Cat's Prescription Food? In short, yes, it is safe for normal cats to eat prescription or specialist foods; but it shouldn't make up their complete daily diet. The ingredients in these foods are adapted to suit the condition: for example, urinary food has lower magnesium, calcium and phosphorus contents, which are associated with the formation of urinary stones. Cats are unlikely to become deficient because they have abnormally high levels of these nutrients in the first place, whereas a normal cat may develop deficiencies over time. A few mouthfuls won't hurt but if it's persistently stealing another cat's food and eating none of its own, then separate mealtimes are a good idea. An alternative solution might be investing in a microchip feeder, which is a bit like an upgraded food dispenser that releases food to an authorised pet by recognising his or her microchip. Owners in the UK must get their cats microchipped by law, but it's also possible to attach them to collars. A basic option, the Sure Petcare SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder works for both wet and dry food. The lid only opens for authorised pets based on their microchip or RFID collar tag (supplied). Just be conscious of any changes to your cat's health and if you suspect new food is the cause, consult your vet. Shop smart fountains and automatic feeders → Enough of the theory work, it's time to get practical by trying these easy strategies for introducing cats to new food. Smell and familiarity are everything to our feline friends, so don't be surprised or concerned if there's a lengthy adjustment period. With persistence and encouragement, cats will eventually get used to new food. It largely depends on their stubbornness levels - as with anything cat related, work on their time instead of your own! Mentioned Products Churu by INABA Cat Treat Cat Sprinkles Cat Food Topper Sure Petcare SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder Did these tasty tips work for your cat? Do you have any tips or advice of your own? Share in the comments!

Drax & Simba The boys. The story behind this blog started seven years ago when my boys, Drax and Simba (aka Needy/Bubby) were taken in by Cats Protection, which makes it more their story than mine. They were the only two that survived of an entire litter after being rejected by their birth mother. Having a sister who works for the company, she’d often bring home kittens to foster until they were strong enough to be independent or ready for adoption into their forever homes - it’s always hard to say goodbye! After our family cat, Dillon, passed away it was decided that we’d have no more cats…. Simba's milky time. Jump to several months later and we had two new boys tearing around the house, scaling curtains, hanging off furniture and clawing the new carpet to shreds. What can I say? Weeks of bottle feeding, bathing, toilet training, playing and socialising made it impossible to let the siblings go - and let’s be honest, what’s a home without a cat? Related post: 11 Essential Tips Every New Cat Owner Should Know They quickly developed their own little characters: Simba, the big baby (Bubby!) whose name speaks for itself; and Drax, the more independent and laid-back of the two. They weren't the closest of brothers but would often go looking for each other, enjoyed a good ol’ playfight and slept together every night. They were happy to do their own things during the day and it was nice to see Simba following his brother around from time to time. Baby Drax with a full tummy. They were intelligent too, able to pick up words and gestures almost as effectively as a dog - even their memories were outstanding. Hey, it took all of two sittings to teach Simba how to flush the toilet and he was already making his own feeble attempts (he loves water so I used this to my advantage!). I sometimes wonder if being raised by humans alters a cat’s perception, makes them more inclined to learn than if they’d had a mother. As any parent will know, cats only do what they want to do - unless there’s something in it for them. Simba's favourite cuddly toy. Most of their “kittenhood” was problem free. Both were raised as indoor cats  for multiple reasons, plus they were terrified of outside. Drax had a couple of UTIs which cleared up quickly and no aggression was displayed between the two, although they were incredibly skittish. Any sudden movements, loud noises such as coughing or sneezing; dropping things and carrying large objects - it was (and still is) borderline ridiculous. Strangely, Drax loved to meet new people whereas Simba would shoot off and hide until the intruder had gone. King of the jungle,  he was not! Chillin' in their strawberry hut. The boys would often be spooked by things, to the point that I learned to creep around the house like a master ninja. Usually they’d disappear to one of their hiding places until they were ready to come out, but one night it escalated. All I heard was Simba come flying down the stairs and into the living room. He ran up the cat tree, soared into the air so he was inches away from smacking the ceiling and landed on the floor (unharmed, thank God) before scrambling behind the sofa. He’d also peed himself - truthfully, I wasn’t far behind! What on earth had caused such a dramatic reaction? I rushed upstairs to search for Drax and found him cowering under my bed. Drax doing his best cute face. While I never uncovered the source of the scare, it had evidently caused friction between the boys because the whole night was filled with hissing and growling whenever they approached one another. This seemed to be a case of redirected aggression   and, fortunately, it didn’t last. Up until the age of four, these spooking incidents happened a few times, but I wasn’t overly concerned as there were never any physical fights and the process was always the same: scary event, hiding, aggression, back to normal. ​ A quick break from terrorising the humans. Early one unsuspecting morning, a fight broke out in the kitchen which consisted of the usual hissing and yowling until one fled the scene. We suspected either one or both of them had seen a stray cat in the garden - note that we also had an old cat flap, so it’s possible that they could have smelled the intruder if it had approached the back door. It was a much more aggressive fall out that dragged on for almost a week, during which they had their first physical altercation. I was horrified. They couldn’t be in the same room without starting a hissing war and the caterwauling was like listening to a couple of alley cats. After some frantic research into feline aggression and potential remedies, which will be outlined in more detail throughout this site, they seemed to work things out with hardly any intervention at all. Peace was restored…. for a short time. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting Nap nap time. Three months later, I was woken in the early hours of the morning by yowling and the scrabbling of feet. Not again! I was more frustrated than anything, I didn’t want this to be a recurring ordeal and the whole thing felt silly and unnecessary. My boys weren’t vicious, they generally got on well and had no logical reason (as far as human logic goes) to continue this behaviour. They were brothers, that should mean something. Right?   Wrong! It's sad to say, but your cat doesn’t know or care who it’s related to. These early morning spats kept happening, almost as if it had become a habit or morning ritual. It never continued into the day, in fact everything would seem normal to the outsider but I sensed that something was brewing. There was an uneasy silence in the house that made tension between the boys deafening to me. Getting too big to share a bed. Anyone who’s spent as much time observing their fur babies as me will know when something’s “off”. Whether it was a look, an expression or a shift in posture; the way they crept around each other in hallways or stiffened when one entered a room. My suspicions were soon to be confirmed. I was in the living room with both cats when their eyes locked in a stare that lasted a little too long for my liking. I heard one of them growling, then Simba charged over to Drax so they came face to face. Drax yowled in response, which made Simba turn and bolt upstairs with Drax hot on his tail. I’m sure I don’t have to describe the commotion of a cat fight, but I will say it’s the worst thing to listen to - especially through a ceiling. From the thunderous footfalls to the banging of floorboards as they throw themselves into a fur-flying, howling, spitting mass of teeth and claws. Helping mummy work. If it’s any consolation, cat fights often sound far worse than they are - but that doesn’t mean there’s not an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. Remember, all of this escalated from a single look. By the time I got to the boys, they’d already separated. Drax scarpered when he heard me approaching and Simba was left cowering in a corner that was splattered with his own pee. As scary and heartbreaking as it was, I started to notice a pattern. About 90% of these spats were happening in the kitchen and dining room areas, which was the site of the original “spooking”. Was there some traumatic event or memory attached to these rooms? If only it was as simple as asking the question! Brothers hanging out. ​ Any specialist, expert or professional will tell you that the number one rule to feline aggression is to NEVER let them fight it out. Whether it’s a one-off incident that you’re fortunate enough to never experience again or part of a longer-term issue, they do not find resolution in conflict. That’s not to say if your cats fight once then they’ll continue to do so, it really depends on the nature of the aggression. We must find the cause or trigger in order to understand and prevent it, and so my research began. All grown up! When I started writing this article, I was deep amidst my cat hell journey and the outcome was unclear. I wanted to document my experience as reassurance to both myself and others that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been as desperate and broken-hearted as you may be feeling now, my cats having gone through numerous separations and reintroductions ; spending a fortune on pheromone diffusers , calming tablets and other recommendations given to me. Related post:   Top 10 Products I Used to Help Reintroduce Fighting Cats This whole journey seems to have been a never-ending battle of one step forwards, two steps back. As soon as you think you’re making progress, bam! Another fight, another setback, another case of rewind and start again. At times I feared the aggression would never subside, and the thought of rehoming one of my babies was absolutely crushing. Simba's favourite sleeping position. The topics I discuss are unique in the fact that I’m able to apply my own personal experiences and describe how effective (or ineffective) I found various processes and/or remedies. What worked for me may not work for you, and that’s okay! You know your cats better than anyone and no two situations will be the same. With observation and vigilance, it becomes easier to spot problem behaviour and determine when, where, why and how aggression is occurring. You’ll almost certainly find that doorways, corridors and narrow spaces - anywhere your cats come face to face or pass by one another - are common fighting zones. Especially if one acts as a blocker, preventing the other from entering or exiting rooms which is typically territorial behaviour . As time went on, it became clearer and clearer that Drax was the main aggressor. Sleeping beauty. While I can’t be 100% certain, I can say with some confidence that my original suspicions of an outdoor intruder cat were the most likely cause. This happened around the same time that Drax was diagnosed with having crystals in his wee, so it could have been either one or a combination of those things. Regardless of the cause, Drax seemed to calm down after I disinfected the yard (and house) where strays might have been urine spraying , but it didn't happen overnight. Change came with a lot of trial and error.... and the most unlikely source of help.   Read the full story here: Pet Psychics: My Experience with an Animal Communicator and How It Helped My Cats Simba loves his comfort. My patience was tested to its limits, as I’m sure yours will be too. We may never fully understand what’s going on in those little brains, but there’s always a reason for a cat acting out. Whether that reason is physical, emotional, psychological - or a combination of all of those things - by arming yourself with a deeper understanding of feline behaviour, you’ll stand a better chance of developing a strategy for managing inter-cat aggression . At the very least, you can take comfort in the fact that you’ve done everything in your power to help.   Trust me when I say that all of the hard work and effort will be worth it to see those fur babies snuggling up together. Best of all, you’ll be prepared in the event of any recurrences and able to nip it in the bud sooner rather than later! ​ Present day, friends again (mostly!). For a more personal account of the reintroduction process, head over to this post: How I Successfully Reintroduced Cats After Fighting It's been a working progress and we're taking each day at a time. I never stop learning (or worrying) and continue to pass on knowledge and advice to other parents. Your comments, messages, likes and shares help to keep this site going and makes you a huge part of my mission to help our furry friends. If you'd like to follow my journey and keep up with new posts, I invite you to subscribe to the blog. You can visit the About Page to learn more about Cat Mum Journal and, if you feel inclined, make a donation at the link below. Drax Simba Have you got your own story to share? Let us know in the comments or get in touch!

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. While the world is out celebrating New Year, Bonfire Night and other special occasions, many cats and dogs are trapped in a living nightmare. Sudden bursts of loud noise akin to gunfire and bright flashes of light can be overwhelming to a cat's senses, leading to acute stress and related behaviours. The RSPCA reports that between 2021 to 2024, they received over 14,000 responses to a survey on fireworks, each detailing the impact of fireworks on pets - many of which had devastatingly fearful reactions. Hyperventilation, refusal to eat and a suspected bladder blockage are just a few reports from cat owners. A dog in my neighbourhood suffered a heart attack as a result of fireworks, and I suspect it's an issue that only pet owners will understand. Hopefully, this article gives a little more insight into the effect of fireworks on cats and how to reduce stress. In this article: Why Do Fireworks Cause Stress in Cats? Signs Your Cat Is Stressed Preparing for Fireworks Creating a Safe Space Other Tips and Tricks Calming Aids More Getting Cats Used to Fireworks Aftercare Summary Why Do Fireworks Cause Stress in Cats? Senses Cats have sensitive hearing with a range of around 48 Hz - 64,000 Hz, and even up to 85,000 Hz. This means they hear both low and high frequencies, up to three times higher than humans and four to five times further away. Is it any wonder they're left traumatised by the unpredictable bangs, booms, crackles and squeals of exploding fireworks? We know they're harmless, but cats are creatures of instinct. Loud noises are one of many stimuli that can cause fear or stress-based reactions, and repeated exposure may lead to more chronic cases of stress, whereby the cat is triggered every time it hears a similar noise. Related post: Feline Stress: 8 Reasons Why Your Cat is Stressed or Anxious Fight-or-Flight When a cat is frightened, it releases hormones that prepare the body for danger, also known as the fight-or-flight response. This is often overlooked, since we view cats more as formidable predators; but in the wild they're also prey to larger animals. As a parent of the most skittish cats you could ever meet, I've seen my fair share of overdramatic reactions - a creaking floorboard or gust of wind can send them bolting from the room like a couple of furry rockets. This may come in useful when fleeing from a pack of wolves, but survival instinct is part of their genetic makeup. As mentioned, this can potentially lead to much deeper behavioural issues like aggression . While this is more likely to happen over a longer period of time, it only takes one single incident for cats to lash out at each other - or people - during a heightened state of arousal. Signs Your Cat Is Stressed Stress or fear can be visible in a cat's body language or, more subtly, present in their behaviour. Every cat reacts differently, but there are some common things to look out for. Physical: Hunched, rigid posture. Flattened or pinned back ears. Fluffed up fur. Rapid breathing or panting. Shaking. Drooling. Hissing and growling. Excessive meowing or yowling. Immobility. Daintry Cat Calming Spray combines feline pheromones with the natural soothing properties of cedarwood to reduce stress and anxiety. Use around the home or spray onto carriers prior to travelling. Behavioural: Involuntary peeing or pooping. Urinating outside the litter tray. Not eating or drinking. Hiding and nervousness. Being quiet or withdrawn. Restlessness (like pacing). Overgrooming. These lists aren't extensive, and you can familiarise yourself with the signs and symptoms of feline stress in this dedicated post: Signs of Stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment Preparing for Fireworks Occasionally, fireworks are set off unexpectedly; but if you know there's an event coming up then it gives you a chance to take some precautions. You can also keep a diary, noting any special dates where there's likely to be celebrations. Keep Cats Indoors Prevent cats from going outside on the day or evening of fireworks by keeping doors and cat flaps closed. The last thing you want is to be sat up all night worrying about where they are and why they haven't come home. Frightened cats are more likely to run away and end up in dangerous situations, such as running across roads or getting lost. Microchipping and ID Tags If your cat is microchipped (which should be standard practice) or wears a collar and ID tag, ensure your details are up to date. These are the most reliable ways to help reunite with your cat in the event that it goes missing. Don't Leave Pets Unattended Try to be home on the day of festivities so cats aren't left alone, especially if you have multiple cats so you can monitor their behaviour. Safe Places If your cats have a favourite safe place that they withdraw to, make sure it's accessible during fireworks. This means not confining them to a single room - even if your intentions are good, it may cause additional panic if a cat feels trapped. My boys are extremely sensitive to fireworks: Drax scarpers upstairs to hide under by bed, while Simba dives behind the sofa. If you have a new cat or kitten and aren't sure how they'll react to fireworks, this is even more reason to prepare in advance. Creating a Safe Space It might sound counterintuitive, but one of the best ways to help a frightened kitty is by providing a quiet area where they can retreat and leaving them be. This should be away from windows and doors to reduce noise and light exposure. Closing curtains and blinds may also help. Here are some more tips for ensuring your cat feels as safe as possible: Set up hiding places with used blankets or bedding. The familiar scent will help to create a comfortable and secure environment. You can introduce your cat beforehand by showing them or placing treats in the area so they'll remember it for later. Provide upturned boxes, huts, tents or even a DIY den by draping a sheet over a coffee table. Cats often seek out dark enclosed spaces to hide from danger. In addition to the above, cats naturally feel safer with height advantage: cat trees, shelves or the top of a wardrobe can all be utilised. The more choices they have, the better. Place a litter tray next to their hiding place so they don't have to venture too far. If they don't come out for food, you can leave a bowl nearby too. The Cat Cube House is unique and versatile, made from easy to clean plastic material with a free mat. Can be attached to other cubes and reconfigured in many styles to create a fun and dynamic kitty playground. Available in multiple colours. A common question that owners have is whether they should physically move cats when frightened: for example, if they're frozen or shaking and can't make it to a safe place by themselves. Many experts advise against this, but it largely depends on your cat and whether it's likely to attack. If signs of aggression are present, such as hissing or growling, then it's wise to stay back to avoid any swipes or biting. Approach a scared cat slowly, quietly and calmly to gauge if it's safe to handle them. Other Tips and Tricks Use background noise like a television, radio or music to lessen the impact of sudden or persistent bangs. Some studies have shown that classical music has a calming effect on cats, or a deep base may help to disguise the noise - as long as it's not blaring. While John Wick on full blast works well for my cats, they're already used to my film tastes! A scared kitty probably won't be interested in eating or playing, but you can try offering treats and toys as a distraction . Catnip is a good option, since it activates a cat's pheromone receptors to induce feelings of calm and happiness. Engaging in play before fireworks begin may help to expend nervous energy and tire cats out. Avoid fussing over or smothering cats, as this can stimulate them further and increase the stress they're already experiencing. Of course, if kitty seeks human contact then you should comfort them as best as you can. Since cats are sensitive to human emotions, they'll likely be watching your reaction to the stimulus as well. They're highly observant, highly intelligent creatures, so acting calmly will show them there's nothing to be scared of. Speak softly and avoid sudden movements. Sitting quietly near to your cat's safe space can provide reassurance without forcing interaction. I hope this goes without saying, but never punish your cat for being frightened, even if it lashes out. This will add to their stress, escalate their behaviour and potentially damage the bond you share. Calming Aids There are a variety of products that have been clinically proven to help reduce anxiety in cats during stressful situations, including fireworks. Many of them are discussed on this blog, but let's go over some of the post popular options. Pheromone diffusers mimic the natural facial pheromones that cats use to mark their territory, which creates a sense of safety and security. Since they take several days to work, it's best to plug them in around a week prior to the event. Alternatively, essential oil blends like Pet Remedy have an instant effect. Calming sprays are another good option, and many diffuser brands like Feliway offer spray versions. These are shorter lasting but usually effective within a few minutes, which is great for a top up or using on targeted areas like beds and cat trees. Calming treats and natural supplements, such as those containing L-Tryptophan or valerian root, can help to support calmness from the inside. Always consult a vet before giving cats supplements. Calming collars release pheromones or essential oils continuously and may help some cats to feel more relaxed, but only if they're used to wearing a collar. You can read reviews of two well-known calming supplement brands here: Calming Supplement Reviews: ZylKene and YuMOVE Calming Care for Cats (Tried and Tested) Comfort Zone Plug-In Pheromone Diffuser for single or multi-cat homes. Creates a calm, relaxing environment to help reduce stress and other problem behaviours, as well as tension and fighting between household cats. Getting Cats Used to Fireworks It's possible that cats may become less sensitive to fireworks by slowly desensitising them to the noise. Training involves several steps, starting with playing the sounds of fireworks through a TV or your phone. It should be on a low volume and played for short intervals only. If your cat seems comfortable and shows no signs of stress, repeat the process a few times a day and gradually raise the volume. Once they're content with loud fireworks, you can start creating positive associations with the noise - also known as counterconditioning. Visit Give your cat a treat while the sound is playing and then turn it off - this will only work if your cat is non-reactive to the fireworks. Otherwise, you're rewarding them for being scared which creates the opposite effect! The idea is that, over time, cats will start to associate the noises with a treat and, ideally, look forward to it. You must remember to take it slowly and cease training if your cat gets scared. Desensitisation can work for other loud noises or stressful stimuli, such as nail clipping and travelling. The PDSA offers a step-by-step guide on desensitisation training for fireworks, as well as creating a DIY safe place here: Cats and Fireworks Aftercare Observation is an important part of aftercare so you can check there are no lasting effects. Don't be overly attentive unless your cat initiates it and keep to your normal routine as much as possible. You can offer a snack or treat to take their mind off it. You should pay particular attention in multi-cat households due to the risk of fear-based conflict erupting. If you think this might be an issue, this post is for you:   Redirected Aggression in Cats: Causes and Solutions If your cat shows extreme fear or trauma such as continuous shaking, immobility, refusal to eat, urinating where they shouldn't or destructive behaviour, consult your vet for advice. They may recommend a prescription medication for anxiety during fireworks or other stressful events. Beaphar Herbal Calming Treats contain hop flowers, Melissa and valerian which is known for its calming properties. They help to promote relaxation and reduce the symptoms of stress including scratching, spraying and excessive vocalisation. Summary Having a plan of action reduces last-minute stress for both you and your cat. Remember, if fireworks are loud to humans then it might as well be WW3 for cats. If you're planning on setting off fireworks, whether you own a pet or not, you might want to consider the impact it has on everything else. It's not just domestic animals that suffer, but the many species of wildlife that share our planet. It's not uncommon for animals to flee their habitats, leaving their offspring to fend for themselves. Use these quick reminders to prepare for upcoming events and festivities: Planning ahead makes a big difference, so start creating a safe space days before the expected fireworks. Introduce calming products even earlier, up to a week for diffusers. Use sprays for targeting areas where your cat is likely to withdraw. Schedule a play session in the afternoon or early evening. Close windows and doors before the fireworks begin and do not let cats outside. Fit your cat with an ID tag if it wears a collar and ensure microchip details are up to date. Remain calm! Mentioned Products Pet Remedy Party Season Survival Kit Woyamay Calming Cat Treats Rescue Pet Dropper SEOUGEE Quick Release Cat Collar Personalised Are you a concerned pet parent? Does your furry react negatively to fireworks? Share your experiences to educate, inform and help out other owners.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. 6 Steps for Reintroducing Cats After a Fight: Separation Site Swapping Reintroduction ​ Distraction Food Play Also in this article: When Do I Need to Separate Cats? How Long Should I Keep Cats Apart After a Fight? Why Is Scent Important to Cats? More My Home Isn't Practical for Site Swapping, Is There Anything Else I Can Do? How Do I Know When It's Safe to Reintroduce Cats ? How to Create Positive Associations Why Food and Play Are Important When Introducing or Reintroducing Cats Allowing Visual Contact How to Use Treats to Distract Cats from Fighting How Do I Safely Reintroduce Cats ? How Long Will It Take My Cats to Get Along ? Should I Discipline Cats for Fighting ? How to Break Up a Cat Fight Long-Term Solutions for Aggression Between Cats Summary Cat fights are one of the most stressful and complex issues for a pet parent to deal with, and before long it's not just your cats at war but your entire household. Reintroducing cats after a fight or helping them to get along requires patience, persistence and near constant encouragement; but the good news is that it can be achieved with the right strategy. Armed with my own personal experiences, I'm sharing everything you need to know about how to successfully separate and reintroduce cats. Whether it's a one-off incident or a more long-standing problem, I'll carry you over those hurdles and navigate obstacles to the best of my ability. The more kitties we can help together, the better! Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting 1. Separation When Do I Need to Separate Cats? The separation and reintroduction process can apply to cats that are already acquainted with each other or when bringing new pets into the household. Sometimes it can simply be a case of one cat going for a vet visit or being away for a period of time, thus it becomes a case of non-recognition or redirected aggression . Cats are armed with fangs and claws; they're born hunters which means they're designed to kill. Leaving cats to "fight it out" amongst themselves could be deemed unwise and irresponsible as a guardian. If aggression is physical - that is, full-contact fights with a potential to cause injury - then separation is necessary to build new and positive associations with each other. Whether you're reintroducing cats after a fight or welcoming a new kitten, puppy or baby - both scenarios follow the same principles, whereby we’re treating them as if they’re meeting for the first time. How Long Should I Keep Cats Apart After a Fight? ​ Any separation period will give cats a chance to cool off and de-stress - something we humans can resonate with, too. Some cats just need a 10-minute break, but where aggression is persistent or long-lasting then it’s recommended to keep them separated for 24-48 hours. In extreme cases, it can take weeks rather than days. Again, you know your cats better than anyone. ​ If you find that the reintroduction phase isn’t going well then you may be pushing your cats too fast, in which case try extending the separation time. I know it can feel deflating going back to square one, but you’re not going to resolve things any quicker by forcing cats into situations they aren’t ready for. In fact, this could damage their relationship further. There should be NO visual contact during separation. 2. Site Swapping ​ Why Is Scent Important to Cats? Site swapping involves rotating cats around different rooms or areas of the home, if possible. This allows them to spread their scents and maintain a sense of familiarity with other cats, even when they're not in direct contact. The same applies when introducing new cats to the home, it’s all part of the preparation. Any foreign smells are going to alert resident cats to a potential invader, so it’s essential that we create a safe and comfortable environment for that initial meeting; after all, first impressions are everything! We know cats are territorial and we know they rely on scent as a valuable form of communication, hence why they should never see each other before being acquainted by smell. My Home Isn't Practical for Site Swapping, Is There Anything Else I Can Do? If the setup of your home doesn’t allow for site rotations then you can swap things like blankets, bedding and toys or rub a towel over one cat and place it in the other cat’s space, paying special attention to the face, mouth and chin where those important scent glands lie. If your cats like to be brushed , you can use the same comb on both cats so their scents are on each other. Some buildings may be more problematic than others, such as studio apartments which generally don’t have doors. In this case, you could look into room dividers or baby gates that slot into hallways and staircases - remembering not to stack one on top of the other as I’ve seen some people do. This is dangerous for both animals and humans! For the living room, I used the Venture Q-Fix Extra Tall Baby Gate which my boys have never jumped over, but they're not particularly energetic cats and would be too scared to try. If you're concerned about your kitties attempting the great escape, you can get creative with materials such as cardboard and Perspex. With some DIY skills you might be able to construct your own barrier, which is what we ended up doing for the stairs - Victorian houses don’t mix well with modern gadgets. A simple made-to-measure wooden frame and chicken wire worked well. Yes it was ugly, but still one of the most helpful aids when reintroducing the boys. The main advantage of a gate over a door is allowing visual contact later on. In the meantime, it can be covered with a blanket, curtain, towel or any kind of fabric that blocks off sight. If your cats are anything like mine and decide to pull up the corners to create spyholes, a bit of tape should do the trick. ​ I cannot stress enough the importance of no visual contact in those early stages. Cats are curious creatures and this is a great opportunity to bring that out. Just what, or who, is on the other side of that barrier? Is it a friend or foe? Do we have a potential playmate? Let your kitties know that good stuff happens whenever they’re together, which brings us to the next phase. 3. Reintroduction If you want your cats to do anything for you then, as with any living creature, food is one of the best motivators. If you’ve read My Story then you’ll know I faced the additional problem of switching Drax to urinary food, not to mention that both of my boys are grazers, preferring small but regular snacks throughout the day instead of set mealtimes. Knowing what I know now, if I could go back in time and not free feed my boys then it’s the first thing I’d change, as this was a wasted opportunity! Related post: How to Change a Cat's Food with 10 Tasty Tips How Do I Know When It's Safe to Reintroduce Cats? If cats have been separated after fighting, wait until they're visibly calmer as this indicates that any adrenaline has left the system. They shouldn't be hissing, growling, tensed up, hunched, cowering, hiding or pacing around. You should be able to pet cats as usual and they'll be comfortable with any new scents. This may mean inspecting blankets and bedding - or on the contrary, ignoring them! If you witness any swatting or hissing at objects that smell of another cat then they're not ready for the next stage. Likewise, if they display any aggressive or fearful behaviour when hearing cats in a different room, extend the separation time by another 12 hours. 2-in-1 Cat Basket made from wear-resistant cattail weaving with removeable plush cushions. Can be used as a comfy sleeping area or scratching basket. Very spacious for larger cats and easy to clean. 4. Distraction ​ How to Create Positive Associations Positive associations or "reinforcements" are an effective way to train cats by using rewards to encourage desired behaviours. Usually this would be whatever best motivates your cat: for example, offering its favourite treat whenever it uses a scratch post instead of clawing your carpet. Kitty will learn to associate this behaviour with something positive - i.e., the treat - so now it loves using its scratch post. Timing is critical here: the reward must be given immediately before a cat's attention wavers to the next thing. If your cat isn't motivated by food then you can use petting, playtime or any kind of positive attention to place emphasis on the behaviour. A word of warning: this is also true for negative associations if, for example, you shout at a cat for fighting then it'll associate that fear with the other cat. Why Food and Play Are Important When Introducing or Reintroducing Cats Food and play are the easiest forms of distraction for an aggressive kitty, and it also helps to build those positive associations. Both are driven by one basic instinct: hunting. In the wild, cats have to catch their prey before they can eat it. A hungry cat is going to be more interested in food than fighting, which takes up energy in itself. I’ve actually witnessed my boys stop growling at each other for a snack, just to pick up their argument afterwards! Meals are the best time to begin introductions or reintroductions, starting with feeding cats simultaneously either side of your chosen barrier. To make a cat extra hungry, you can tire them out with play. I can hear you now: “ But, Rach, my cats won’t play! ” ​ Your cats WILL play, and this post on how to play with cats gives all the pointers and advice you need. ​ I can tell you, however, that I had the same issue. My boys liked to pick and choose their playtimes which, of course, would always be when the other was sleeping. That’s if they wanted to play at all, which 90% of the time was a hard no. Even if cats won't play together, just creating a positive environment where they can observe each other in a neutral setting is a step in the right direction. They'll learn to be in the same space without the focus being on each other (or fighting) and once they're comfortable, you can work on extending play to include both cats. 5. Food ​ Maintaining the no-visual rule, you can begin feeding your cats either side of the barrier. Start by leaving a distance of six to eight feet each way, or however much space you can allow. If all goes well, i.e., cats finish their bowls without any signs of tension or fear, gradually reduce that distance over the following meals. Our aim is to get both cats to a point where they’re eating comfortably right next to the barrier. Whether it takes a day or a week will depend on your cats, but try not to get hung up on timing. What’s important is creating that positive association and reassurance that no one has to compete for vital resources. Allowing Visual Contact Upon successful completion of this step, it’s time for some visual contact. When I say some, I’m talking minimal to begin with. No whipping off that sheet or you risk all of your hard work being undone. Raise the sight blocker by an inch or two, or if you’re using a door then open it a crack - barely wide enough for kitty to squeeze its paw through. ​ This is a good chance to test the waters, so if their attention wavers or they start showing signs of aggression, calmly direct their focus back to the food. An extra pair of hands may be helpful so both cats are being supervised, but remember too that a bit of hissing is perfectly natural. Your cats are warning each other to stay back so everyone knows their place - whether those places are acknowledged is another matter! Again, the process should be repeated for as long as necessary, gradually raising the blanket until there’s full visual contact and eventually * gasp * no barrier at all. If you’re not quite there yet or, like me, food just isn’t tempting enough, do not fear because there are plenty of other distractions to try. How to Use Treats to Distract Cats from Fighting With neither of my boys being big eaters, and a blatant disregard for change, I focused more on treats; although this comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. If you start throwing treats at a hissing cat then it’s going to continue being a hissing cat. Don’t send mixed messages by rewarding aggression, especially when it’s directed at a fellow housemate. Treats should be offered in the presence of both cats and to reinforce good behaviour. I say “good” but cats don’t perceive aggression as bad (or good). It’s part of their survival instinct, whether triggered by an external stressor or as we see in certain hormonal and neurological conditions. Dreamies Cat Snacks are crunchy on the outside with a creamy filling. Flavours include chicken, cheese, duck, beef, salmon, turkey, tuna and catnip. Free from additives and less than 2kcal per treat! Treats were especially useful when managing Drax, as the main aggressor or “chaser”. For example, I’d use his favourite Dreamies treat biscuits as a distraction while Simba either walked past him or crossed from one side of a room to the other. He’d gobble up the treats while keeping a beady eye on his brother, which I’m sure was as terrifying for Simba as it was for me - the referee. During these supervised meetings, if Drax could resist the temptation to lunge at Simba then he was given another treat, along with petting and praise from Mum. I’ll say it again: attention can be a reward! Eventually, Drax began to ignore his brother - or just grew bored - but either way it didn’t solve the larger issue. As with those pesky counter surfers, they’ll just wait until no one’s around to stop them and do it anyway. It was, however, a step in the right direction; and a short relief from chasing two screaming cats around the house. 6. Play ​ To pick up on another form of distraction, you can use play in conjunction with treats. All of those pounces and leaps consume energy, and you want to encourage as much of this positive behaviour as your kitty can manage. The more they exhaust on play, the less they’ll have for fighting. It’s important to play with cats separately as well as together, this way they get your undivided attention and a bonding session with other cats. We don’t want anyone feeling left out! A laser pointer or feather wand is perfect for controlling play, especially during separation as you can direct cats towards the barrier and have them running and chasing either side of it. If you have a second person to entertain both cats, use whatever toys they prefer to keep that momentum going. I had a barrier positioned so that one cat had run of the stairs for extra exercise, but hallways and landings work just as well. Once they’re all tired out, now would be an ideal feeding time. Related post: 12 Types of Cat Toys and Games for All Cats to Play Tyasoleil Interactive Cat Toy inspires natural hunting instincts with unpredictable motion patterns. Rotating feathers can be placed under the plastic cover or attached to the top of cat trees. Includes 3 speed settings and is USB rechargeable. All of these steps have the additional purpose of getting cats into a routine so they know, and hopefully anticipate, what’s coming. Building excitement can certainly be difficult for lazy cats, but it really works. To make things more awkward, my boys favoured completely different toys. Simba was all mice and feather wands; Drax liked to chase crinkle balls and a random pompom. Interactive toys can be a godsend, just push a button and it does the work for you. Even if cats aren’t interested in playing, movement and sound are distraction enough. For playtime on a budget, check out these quick and easy DIY cat toy s . Keep a blanket handy for any outbursts and block off sight if necessary. This should be enough to snap them out of it or, worst-case scenario, usher them into different rooms. Remember, allowing some time to cool off and start over is perfectly fine. Best-case scenario, all goes well and it’s time to ditch the barrier completely. This is undoubtedly the most challenging step, not just for you but for your cats. This should only be attempted if cats can share a space with full visual contact, no aggression and most importantly, no death stares! If you can’t distract them with a barrier then you certainly won’t be able to do it without one. Related post: Aggression vs Play: How to Tell If Cats Are Playing or Fighting Bojafa Feather Wand comes in a 15-piece set that includes 2 wands and 13 teasers: natural feathers, worms and fish. Wands are retractable and can reach up to 96cm. How Do I Safely Reintroduce Cats? Stick to short supervised meetings limited to one room and gradually extend that area over time. It’s only natural to want to give kitties the benefit of the doubt, but that means you’re working on your timeframe instead of theirs. If things go downhill after removing the barrier then keep it in place, even if cats appear to be getting along. Don't expect too much because, chances are, your cats are still working things out. Sometimes you need to give them the freedom to do this. We also need to think of victim cats that can be prone to anxiety and depression. Simba was so on edge that he’d react to the slightest movement or vocalisation from Drax, even when it was harmless. We don’t want to normalise living in fear as this can cause as much psychological damage as a fight can cause physical injury. Your scaredy-cat needs assurance that it isn’t going to be ambushed on its way to the litter tray, and bullies need a positive channel for their energy. The more Simba’s confidence grew, the more he stopped reacting to Drax’s bullying. The less he ran, the less reason Drax had to chase. I’ve spoken previously about cat fights looking and sounding worse than they are, but that doesn’t lessen the stress that can build up over time. Timing is everything here, especially when it comes to cats reacquainting with one another. If cats do engage in a hissing and spitting war upon reintroduction and are unable to work things out within a couple of minutes, they probably aren’t going to - at least, not for the meantime. Prevention is better than intervention, so the best course of action is to defuse the situation with a separation and reset. Recovery should be a lot quicker than if a full-contact fight was to ensue. This should help to reduce tension until episodes become less in frequency and intensity. In extreme cases I’ve seen people use crates, carriers and harnesses to secure an offending cat. This allows a safe introduction where cats can share a space without the risk of an attack. They should be rotated so each has a chance to inspect the other. For example, if you have a victim cat then place it inside a carrier while the other cat is left loose, or keep it on a harness if it shows any aggression towards the victim. Remember to familiarise them with any new enclosures just as you would when preparing them for a vet visit . Related post: How to Harness Train Cats for Walking on a Leash Safely Feliway Classic Spray contains pheromones that help to reduce common signs of stress. Can be used during major changes including renovations, travel and vet visits. Available in 20ml or 60ml bottles that are suitable for use at home or on the go. How Long Will It Take My Cats to Get Along? As mentioned frequently in this article alone, cats have their own timeline and we shouldn't put any expectations on them to ever get along. If you don't like the person you're living with then you have the option of moving out or engaging in a civilised discussion about how to deal with any problems. You have your own room, your own food and the freedom to come and go as you please. Now imagine that person bursting into your private space, helping themselves to your food, sleeping in your bed - maybe even slapping you over the head whenever you walk past. How uncomfortable and frustrating does it feel? How angry would you get over time? If we're going to expect animals to put up with things that we ourselves would never tolerate, the least we can do is allow them to express those feelings and make necessary changes - such a s adding more territory . The wonderful thing about animals is that they don't make enemies out of pettiness or dislike; jealousy, greed or any of those things that humans are guilty of. They're simply fighting for their survival and their territory. It's hard to predict how things will play out and, the truth is, your cats probably don’t know either. Depending on the nature of the aggression and how deep it runs, they may temporarily “forget” they’re friends, for which it’s our job to remind them. Trust has to be earned, and whether that takes weeks or months is down to your cats. One day they might just decide to make up, which I’ve witnessed countless times with my own. The separation and reintroduction process can be as long or as short as it needs to be, and success comes in many forms. If cats aren't trying to kill each other as soon as they enter a room, that's progress! Any kind of positive interaction, however brief, is a sign that you're on the right track. Should I Discipline Cats for Fighting? Yelling at or punishing cats will exacerbate the situation and create negative associations with both yourself and other cats. Rewarding good behaviour is far more effective in the long-run and will encourage kitties to do more of it. We shouldn't be treating cats like dogs, who want nothing more than to please their owners. Frankly, cats couldn't give a damn about pleasing anyone but themselves! Telling a cat "no" is likely to be as detrimental as yelling, as your cat won't have a clue what you're saying; but it will associate the word with a negative experience. Cats can and do remember words, as I can attest to with my own boys who have a very select vocabulary. Words related to food, toys, treats and other things that peak their interest in a positive way stick in their little brains like glue. That's not to say they understand the word itself, but they can comprehend other things like tone of voice and mannerisms. In short, don't underestimate your kitties. “Discipline” can consist of something as simple as ignoring your cat. Our furry friends crave attention, whether they show it or not; and encouraging negative behaviour is a mistake made by many, including myself. How many times have you lifted your cat off the kitchen counter? If you think you’re the one in control then think again, because you’re probably doing exactly what he or she wants you to do. Attention, good or bad, provides no deterrent for a cat. Shop Pet Furniture → How to Break Up a Cat Fight When breaking up fights, a swift and calm separation is all that's necessary. If cats haven't engaged in a physical altercation but are showing signs of aggression , using a sight blocker is recommended. Keep a piece of cardboard handy such as a flattened box, or a cushion to place between cats. This is safer for everyone, especially where cat-to-human aggression is present. It's also less intrusive than wading in or grabbing, which could scare cats into reacting. Sometimes this may be enough to distract them but, if not, then usher cats into different rooms until tension has eased and ensure there are plenty of hiding places. PawHut 2-Tier Cat Tower stands at 91cm and features a large top bed with removable cushion and a middle perch. Thick sisal scratch post and particle board frame is sturdy for larger cats. Where cats are having a full-contact fight, don't use your hands to separate them. This is easier said than done in the heat of the moment, but try using a long-handled object such as a broom or throwing a blanket over one or both cats. They should be kept apart in this instance and left to cool off in their own time, as trying to soothe an aggressive kitty can be dangerous to your hands and body. Ignore cats for at least 10 minutes - I know, it feels like a lifetime - but the more emphasis you place on any particular behaviour, the more they're likely to remember it. Providing plenty of hiding places is a more effective way to help your kitty feel safe. Long-term Solutions for Aggression Between Cats While it's possible for cats to return to a normal, healthy relationship, we must be prepared to make some long-term changes to a cat's routine and/or environment. Once aggression has erupted, it's more likely to happen again in the future - but this isn't always the case. Separation and reintroduction can be a solution for many but, for others, it's part of a longer process to restoring peace and harmony within the home. When managing feline aggression , the most important things to focus on are eliminating competition for resources by offering more food and water stations; sleeping areas, litter trays and toys. You can also add more territory such as cat trees and stands, shelving and window hammocks. Placement is important, and you can find everything you need to know in this post: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources Feliway Friends Plug-In Diffuser mimics the pheromones that a mother cat releases to her kittens to help reduce tension and conflict in multi-cat households. For reducing anxiety and stress, plug-in diffusers target a cat's pheromone receptors to bring feelings of safety and comfort within their environment. Calming sprays , such as Pet Remedy , contain valerian which is known for its relaxing properties; as well as wipes, collars and herbal treats . Medications for anxiety can be discussed with your local vet. Related post: Calming Supplement Reviews: ZylKene and YuMOVE Calming Care for Cats (Tried and Tested) Remember, cats may never be best friends but toleration and avoidance are an achievement, too. Some areas of the home can make this difficult, such as those dreaded narrow spaces we always talk about: doorways and halls. If possible, block off any problem zones or give cats a timeout from each other with a mini separation. This allows them to explore and play without having to worry about potential confrontations. If your home isn't big enough then take it in turns by shutting one cat in a room, similar to site swapping. This will help to burn off energy and limit feelings of frustration from inactivity. Summary Where aggression is physical and persistent, separate cats for 24-48 hours in the first instance. Use site swapping or rotate items such as blankets and bedding so cats can familiarise themselves with new scents. Install a suitable barrier to introduce or reintroduce cats with no visual contact. Start feeding cats either side of the barrier until they're comfortable up close with no signs of tension or fear. Gradually allow visual contact using play, food or treats to distract cats. Remove the barrier and introduce cats under supervision. There should be no hissing or growling. Stick to short meetings and monitor cats' behaviour, slowly extending the area over time. Ensure plenty of resources are available to eliminate competition (beds, food stations, litter trays, etc). Provide a stimulating environment with toys, scratch posts and exercise. Add more territory such as cat trees, shelves, stands, ramps and window hammocks to help cats stay out of each other's ways. Recognise signs of aggression and separate if necessary. Remain calm and reinforce positive behaviour. Give cats the time and space they need! Visit If, like me, you’re constantly beating yourself up over what you did wrong, not doing enough, doing too much - remember, we’re only human. These steps can always be repeated and once you’ve got a process or routine that works for your cats, stick to it. Be patient, be consistent and allow an adequate amount of time for any tension or adrenaline to leave the system before reintroducing cats. That goes for you, too! Cats will pick up on your emotional state, be it through the tone of your voice, gestures or their own super senses. That being said, there are many other factors to consider: your own mental health, as well as that of your cat’s. There’s no defeat in finding your kitties a happy home elsewhere. Discover more helpful strategies in this personal account of how I successfully reintroduced my cats and the top 10 products I used. Mentioned Products Venture Q-Fix Extra Tall Baby Gate Cakkone 7-in-1 Cat Laser Pointer FEANDREA Large Cat Tree Furjoy Cat Cave Are you currently going through the separation and reintroduction process? Have you developed any strategies of your own? Share your experiences in the comments to help and advise other pet parents.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Recommendations are based on extensive research into products, brands, customer feedback and my own reviews wherever applicable. 6 Best Calming Sprays: Feliway Classic Spray Pet Remedy De-Stress & Calming Spray Daintry Cat Calming Spray WEALLIN Cat Calming Spray Beaphar CatComfort Calming Spray Beaphar StressLess Herbal Calming Spray Most Recommended Go to review ⇨ Feliway Classic Spray 🥇  Top Recommended Go to review ⇨ Pet Remedy De-Stress & Calming Spray 🥈  Best Value Go to review ⇨ Daintry Cat Calming Spray 🥉  Best Multi-Use You've probably noticed a variety of cat calming sprays on the market, which suggests there are a lot of stressed out kitties at home. You might even recognise some of these brands, particularly if you've already tried plug-in diffusers , collars or herbal treats . Some products are better suited to short-term anxiety, while others - such as diffusers - can be used on a longer-term basis to tackle problem behaviours. The portable option of a spray makes it convenient and more suited to a wider range of scenarios, but it can get expensive for continuous use. Whichever you choose, it's important to remember that what humans consider as "inappropriate" behaviour is completely normal for your kitty. Urine marking , scratching and aggression towards other cats are part of their innate survival instincts; however, in a domestic setting, it can indicate an underlying issue. As always, it's crucial to get cats checked over by a vet to rule out health concerns, as stress can also be a response to pain. Other signs that your cat might be suffering from anxiety include excessive meowing, hiding, overgrooming and loss of appetite. Related post: How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress Resources are important for ensuring a feline-friendly, stress-free home. If you don't provide enough litter trays, scratching posts or stimulation, no matter how many calming products you use, cats are still going to claw your furniture, wee on the carpets and run around howling at 3 a.m. Related post: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources Visit Whether you're wondering which calming method is best for your kitty, what makes sprays a good option or have no idea where to begin, this article explores six different sprays that you can use in the home and on the go. Some situations and scenarios that might benefit from calming sprays include: Using on carriers prior to travelling. Vet visits. Moving house. Renovations. Fireworks and thunder. Settling or introducing new cats. Bedding and safe places. Targeting problem areas of the home (where cats scratch, urinate, etc). Multi-cat conflict. To learn more about the effects of stress on our feline friends, why it happens and how to manage it, this post is essential reading:   Signs of Stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment Calming Sprays 🥇 Top Recommended ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Feliway Classic Spray Feliway has been developed with over 25 years of science and research into pet welfare and is trusted by vets, animal charities and behaviourists. Just like Feliway Classic Diffuser , the spray version contains a copy of the feline facial pheromone (FFP) that cats release when rubbing their cheeks, lips, chin and forehead against objects in the home. This marking behaviour allows them to feel safe and content, as well as creating a "group scent" with other animals and their owners. The main advantage of a spray is that it can be used to help reduce stress on the go, as well as providing support at home for up to five hours. Simply spray in an area approximately 15 minutes before introducing cats to new environments or situations. The synthetic pheromones mark areas as safe and secure, reducing the need for scratching, urine spraying, crying and other stress-related behaviours. As mentioned, the portable option is something you don't get with a diffuser that has to be plugged in for continuous use. This is one of three sprays that I've tried, and it allowed me to target specific areas of the home where my cats kept getting into spats - namely doorway jams that allowed for those dreaded stand-off opportunities. They weren't always like this, as you may know if you're familiar with my blog, but it took twelve months of trial and error to bring peace back to the home. I didn't expect that sprays would make much of a difference, but I can say with a certain amount of confidence that spritzing the doorways has made a significant improvement. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting Feliway Classic Spray comes in two sizes: 20ml lasts for approximately 16 sprays, while 60ml has around 50 sprays. This sounds like a decent amount, but the instructions advise using 8-9 sprays per application - which means a 20ml bottle only lasts for two separate occasions. On the plus side, I've never used that many sprays in one go as there's a generous amount of vapour. Feliway is known for its high price tags, and with the spray being effective for a maximum of five hours, it can get rather extortionate for long-term use. If this timeframe isn't enough or you want to cover a larger area, you'll save money by using a Feliway diffuser and reserving the spray for an extra boost when needed. According to Feliway studies, it has a 92% satisfaction rate with 9 out of 10 cats showing improvements in scratching and urine spraying. Customer reviews are also positive, with many finding the product beneficial for travel and vet visits; settling rescue cats and new additions. Opinions aren't so favourable regarding the smell, even though it's supposed to be odourless, the spray is ethanol based so needs a few minutes to settle. Related post: Feliway Reviews: Classic, Optimum and Friends Diffuser Comparison ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 5,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ 10% feline facial pheromone. ✕ Takes 15 minutes to work. ✓ Choice of sizes. ✕ Expensive. ✓ Lasts up to 5 hours. ✓   Veterinary recommended. 🥈 Best Value ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Pet Remedy De-Stress & Calming Spray Pet Remedy is clinically proven to work with pets' natural calming systems by mimicking GABA, a natural calming agent present in mammals, birds and reptiles. This means it can be used in multi-pet homes and the effects are immediate. The spray contains a low concentration of valerian, a herb that's known for its relaxing properties; along with vetiver, basil and clary sage essential oils. It's designed to help animals feel safe in unpredictable situations, both in the home and on journeys. Just a couple of squirts is all you need for bedding , cat trees, problem areas and carriers prior to travelling. While you should avoid spraying directly onto pets so they don't associate the spray with stressful situations, its water-based, pH-neutral formula is safe on fur and skin. It can be used to aid bonding by spraying a little onto your fingers and gently rubbing around muzzles, under the chin and top of the chest to help with scent swapping. You can also spray harnesses and leads when walking a nervous cat or dog. Effects can be seen immediately and last for 2-6 hours depending on the individual pet. I've used Pet Remedy many times during fireworks and thunder, as well as calming my cats down after fighting . Similarly, customers report positive experiences when settling anxious pets and making stressful situations less.... well, stressful! It also works well with the Pet Remedy Diffuser , but some people don't like the herbal aroma. Related post: Pet Remedy Calming Products for Cats with Reviews (Tried and Tested) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 5,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Suitable for all pets. ✕ Doesn't contain pheromones. ✓ Contains valerian. ✕ Strong smell. ✓   Large 200ml bottle. ✓ Effective immediately. 🥉 Best Multi-Use ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Daintry Cat Calming Spray Daintry offers the best of both worlds by combining the soothing effects of feline pheromones with the natural calming properties of cedarwood. This unique blend is designed to reduce stress and anxiety while promoting a sense of wellbeing and relaxation. The spray is recommended for most stressful situations, travelling, new pets and adjusting to new environments. It can be applied to carriers, bedding, scratchers and furniture; however, some owners may not appreciate their sofas smelling of cedarwood! Do not spray directly onto cats. The essential oil is diluted and safe for cats, as well as having antibacterial properties and acting as an insect or flea repellent. Having used Daintry myself, I found that it was more potent than Pet Remedy; but my cats didn't seem to notice or react to it at all. Instructions advise applying 9 sprays and waiting 30 minutes before allowing pets into the area. Effects last up to 5 hours, and it's averagely priced for a 60ml bottle. Customers find this to be an effective and fast-acting calming aid, which I can attest to with my own boys. Reviews mention using it for moving house, travelling and squabbling cats. Opinions on the scent are mixed and the bottle doesn't last very long. If you like this spray, you can also pair it with the Daintry Cat Calming Diffuser . ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 30+ Amazon reviews. ✓ 10% feline facial pheromone. ✕ Takes 30 minutes to work. ✓ Organic cedarwood. ✕   Scented. ✓ Flea repellent. ✓ Antibacterial. ⭐⭐⭐ WEALLIN Cat Calming Spray WEALLIN Cat Calming Spray mimics the feline facial pheromone to help cats adapt to new environments, soothe anxiety and address certain behavioural issues. It can be used for fearfulness, hiding, separation anxiety, vet visits and conflict in multi-cat households. Spray should be applied to surfaces where cats regularly scratch or urinate to prevent damage to furniture and carpets. It lasts for up to five hours, with improvements to behaviour seen within 7-14 days. One bottle contains approximately 50 sprays and, while it's a little pricey, you can save money by purchasing a double pack. Customer reviews are positive for use during fireworks, travelling, soothing nervous cats and aiding sleep. However, some mention that the spray smells of lavender which pets (and owners!) may not enjoy. ⭐⭐⭐ 3 / 5 Based on 500+ Amazon reviews. ✓   Feline facial pheromone. ✕   Takes 7-14 days to see the full effects. ✓  Veterinary recommended. ✕   Scented. ✓  Single or double pack. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Beaphar CatComfort Calming Spray Beaphar CatComfort Calming Spray is clinically proven to calm and reduce unwanted behaviours by replicating the feline facial pheromone. It's recommended for cat flaps to encourage use, which is a neat trick for training outdoor cats; window ledges in the event of peeping Toms; vet visits and areas of the home where cats need extra reassurance. A small 30ml bottle produces around 214 sprays, making it a cheaper alternative to other pheromone-based products. Directions advise 9 sprays per application which lasts up to five hours. Customer reviews mention that you don't need much to see the effects and there's no odour. It's said to reduce excessive crying during vet trips and travelling, but it doesn't work on all cats. Beaphar's calming spray can be used in conjunction with other products in the Beaphar CatComfort range, including a diffuser and spot-on. Related post: Beaphar Cat Calming Products: Diffuser, Spray, Spot-On, Collar and Tablets ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 900+ Amazon reviews. ✓ 10% feline facial pheromone. ✕ Not effective on all cats. ✓   Lasts up to 5 hours. ✓ Clinically proven. ✓ Value for money. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Beaphar StressLess Herbal Calming Spray Another product from Beaphar, the StressLess Calming Spray contains valerian, renowned for its ability to promote feelings of relaxation and calm. It's designed for cat and dog households to reduce symptoms of stress including scratching, spraying, constant meowing or barking and destructive behaviour. The 125ml bottle is generous compared to similar sprays but doesn't contain any other ingredients. It can be sprayed onto blankets, bedding, toys and other items used by pets; as well as carriers prior to a car journey. It's recommended for use during fearful situations such as renovations, fireworks and thunderstorms. Despite a negative opinion on the smell, owners find the product to be helpful during fireworks, travelling and spraying over bedding to help nervous pets sleep. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 12,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Suitable for cats and dogs. ✕ Doesn't contain pheromones. ✓   Contains valerian. ✕ Strong smell. ✓ Effective immediately. Summary As I always say when recommending or reviewing calming products, all cats will respond differently and some won't respond at all. Herbal options like Pet Remedy are generally better suited to stressful situations, and pheromone products help to tackle more deep-rooted behavioural problems. To find out what works best for your cat, I suggest trying one of each (herbal and pheromones) to see if either one makes a difference, then you can narrow it down to a couple of brands. If you're looking for a longer-term solution, it may be cheaper and more effective to use a plug-in diffuser. Related post: Best Cat Calming Plug-in Pheromone Diffusers (Tried and Tested) Information accurate from February 2026 and may be subject to change. Feel free to get in touch if you think this article needs updating. Have you tried any of the calming sprays mentioned or did these reviews help you to make a decision? Share your experiences and feedback in the comments to help out fellow cat parents.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. In this article: What Is a Pet Psychic? How Does Psychic Ability Apply to Our Pets? What Can Animal Communication Do for Me and My Pets? How Pet Psychics Use Telepathy to Speak to Animals More My Experience and What I Learned Where Can I Find a Good Animal Communicator? What Is a Pet Psychic? When we hear the term “psychic” we think of crystal balls, fortune telling and spirit communication. While this may be an unconventional topic, most people are no stranger to extrasensory abilities, but fewer understand what it really means  to be psychic. That is, a way in which people perceive information by tapping into the energetic realm, as opposed to using the traditional five senses.   If you’re already familiar with this notion and want to skip ahead to my experience with an animal communicator, you can go straight here . A basic example, we can tell when a person is upset when they cry. Even if there are no words involved, we can physically see and hear the process - we might even cry with them. A psychic may claim to feel this sadness as if it was their own, or receive visions that are triggered by the emotions of another person (or animal) in order to interpret what’s going on their life: past, present and future. There are many different forms of psychic ability, such as clairvoyance and mediumship (channelling communication from the spirit realm) amongst others. Just as no two painters or writers are the same, a gift is what we make of it. If this subject fills you with scepticism then go ahead and skip this post. Personal beliefs, experiences and even religion will have a part to play in how any individual forms an opinion. I say it’s good to have questions, provided you can ask them with an open mind. How Does Psychic Ability Apply to Our Pets? Animal psychics, communicators or “whisperers” claim to have the ability to connect with animals on a telepathic level, both living and deceased, in order to understand their thoughts and emotions; which in turn may help us to understand their behaviour. What about language barriers , you ask? I won’t pretend to know all the answers, but I believe a psychic’s intuition plays a role. The language of energy is, supposedly, a universal one. Visit As you’ve probably guessed, I do have an interest in spirituality or the “paranormal” as it’s also labelled. As far as personal experiences go, I have plenty of ghost stories to tell that would require a whole other blog. I wouldn’t declare myself a psychic, but I’ve found since childhood that I’ve been sensitive to things of a spiritual nature. For me, seeking help from an animal communicator was no more abnormal than seeking the advice of a vet. I’m NOT comparing the two and your first point of call should always be a medical professional. Same as with humans, psychics are no substitute for a doctor and will not cure issues of a physical, mental, emotional or psychological nature. They are what you might call “therapy for the soul” and bringing the mind, heart and body into balance - but no one has to believe this. What Can Animal Communication Do for Me and My Pets? Now the serious stuff is out of the way, you might be wondering what a pet psychic or medium actually does and why you should contact one in the first place. Have you ever asked the question: what is my cat thinking? Does my cat love me? Is my cat happy? What does my cat need?   Of course you have, because there isn’t a cat parent in the world who hasn’t asked at least one of these questions! It’s not just limited to cats, psychics can work with any animal that’s willing to communicate. Maybe you have an anxious kitty and want to know how to make it more comfortable; maybe he or she cries whenever you leave the house and you need them to know that it’s only temporary - you will return! Cats are notorious for letting us know when they want something, how they want it, where they want it; but us dumb humans don’t always pick up on it. Is there a certain way your cat likes to be petted? Does it have a favourite toy or brand of food? Perhaps you have a dog that likes a particular route you take on its walk, a hamster that wants softer bedding, a bird that needs to spread its wings. If you've lost a furry companion and are struggling with bereavement , even if it was twenty years ago, then knowing they're at peace in the spirit realm can be incredibly comforting and reassuring. Even the smallest things can make a huge difference to our pets, especially cats. As independent creatures, imagine how frustrating it must be to rely on a human for all of their daily needs - and not be able to tell us! If you're familiar with the story behind this blog then you'll know that delving into such a controversial topic isn’t just about creating a fascinating post. I had questions that no vet or specialist could answer. I needed  a solution to a long-standing problem between my squabbling cats. If not a solution, then at least some understanding of why this was happening. Why did my sweet boys suddenly hate each other? Read My Story for more. Animal Communication Made Easy  by Pea Horsley is essential reading for animal lovers who want to understand their pets. Includes a five-step method to create a deep, spiritual connection with any animal. If animal communication is a journey you wish to take, whether through a pet psychic or developing your own abilities, there's tons of information and resources to point you in the right direction. As with all extrasensory abilities, I believe it’s a gift that everyone possesses on some level - if only we can find the key to unlocking it. This article from Moon Tree Blog is essential reading for beginners: How to Communicate with Animals Using Telepathy: The Basics Reading a human’s energy, or even that of a spirit, we can assume there’s a common language. How does one converse with an animal? How does telepathy work when our pets can’t speak? It doesn’t seem plausible or logical, especially when we consider that a lot of psychics work remotely as well as face to face. Sometimes a photograph or object, such as a personal belonging, is enough to tune into the energy of a person or animal. How Pet Psychics Use Telepathy to Speak to Animals We contacted a lady in the UK (where I live) who offers animal communication sessions over phone call, video chat, email or in person for locals. I’ll say here that if your psychic is willing to show his or her face then it adds an element of trust and respectability to their brand. Samantha Milns of thesnowleopard.co.uk is an experienced healer, teacher, empath and animal communicator; and she put us at ease from the first second of our call. Samantha explained that she communicates with animals by tuning into them telepathically (apparently this is how your pets communicate with each other!) and the animal provides information in the form of visions, thoughts, words, feelings, sensations and emotions. This can help to uncover any issues from the animal’s perspective, which in our case was getting to the root of Drax’s aggression.   Samantha also provides various (energetic) healing techniques such as reiki and shamanic healing in order to ease or relieve symptoms - which is by no means a cure. Just as a human might turn to holistic approaches to illnesses and/or disease, it’s no substitute for medical intervention. I cannot stress enough the importance of getting pets checked over by a qualified vet. It's also worth mentioning that animals, especially cats, have a mind of their own and cannot be forced to behave a certain way. It’s not as simple as telling your pets to stop fighting or keep off the kitchen counters. Samantha is transparent in the sense that, rather than telling her clients what they want to hear, her job is to relay whatever an animal has to say - for good or bad. Communicators are merely channels between a pet and their human guardians. My Experience and What I Learned In the same way that psychics can provide information on our personalities, Samantha began the session by describing Drax and Simba as further reassurance that she was connecting with them psychically. Imagine sitting down with a complete stranger and having them describe your child’s character traits, likes, dislikes, habits and hobbies. As if they know them almost as intimately as you do - crazy, right?   If you’re thinking that cats are all the same, then I pity you and your cat because you clearly don’t spend enough time getting to know the wonderfully unique creatures they are. I have to praise the accuracy here, even my slightly sceptical dad was convinced of Samantha’s gift. From Drax’s simple, laid-back nature to Simba’s wimpy (and occasionally bratty) tendencies, there really wasn’t anything to doubt or disagree with. I hadn’t given away any information prior to this; all Samantha had was a photo of the boys and, for the purpose of the session, a vague mention of Drax’s aggression. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting   If you still have doubts then I can say that, during the conversation, we asked if the cats were bored of living indoors. Did they need more enrichment or stimulation, more toys, more anything? Samantha assured us that there was no such boredom, they were happy as indoor cats and were actually scared of going outside - which we already know. Yet the most astounding part was when Drax gave her a vision of his favourite toy: a strip of mesh fabric. Visit Okay, not strictly a toy but a fun thing to roll around in, sleep on and chase when wafted around. As I said, he’s a simple boy - and this was the exact word Samantha used to describe him. Had she picked out a mouse or feather wand then you could call it a lucky guess, but there’s nothing predictable about a piece of fabric. To pick out the exact material is the icing on the cake. To all of you debunkers out there: no, I don’t post photos of my cats all over social media for anyone to see, and this site didn’t exist at the time.   Back to the session, Samantha was able to pick up on Drax’s emotions and described him as being very scared, nervous, agitated and confused. It all revolved around another cat but, thankfully, it wasn’t Simba. She confirmed our suspicions that he’d seen an intruder, but sightings weren’t the problem; it was the smell. According to Drax, this cat had been urine spraying on or around the house, possibly in the back yard, and its scent had got inside. My guess is that people had been bringing it in on their shoes and, in short, it was driving him nuts. Samantha - or rather, Drax - described the smell as being “everywhere”. The strangest part of all, when Samantha asked if there was a pair of shoes near the front door (which there was) Drax walked up to the shoes, sniffed them and then SAT on them - as if he’d heard every word of the conversation. Knowing what we know about redirected aggression , which I suspect became territorial in Drax’s case, it was just his way of coping with the stress. Samantha also picked up on Simba’s behaviour, that he was rather pissed off at being the brunt of Drax’s aggression and wanted nothing to do with him. On a positive note, it wasn’t a case of they simply hated each other. Samantha felt that they still had a bond deep down, which is the best I could have hoped for given the situation. Related post: Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats I was searching for something, anything , to work with that meant I didn’t face the heart-breaking task of rehoming one of the boys. Samantha expressed that, as far as the cats were concerned, this wouldn’t be an ideal solution because they still needed each other around. Again, if you refer back to My Story then you’ll know they enjoyed their own space, but would often go searching for each other to engage in some brotherly hang-out time. Whether you choose to accept or reject psychic advice is down to your own discretion. As I’ve stated so many times throughout this site, I sensed that the spats between Drax and Simba were nothing personal. It was completely uncharacteristic and there were moments when they’d go back to playing as if nothing had changed.   If I genuinely believed that living together wasn’t safe or it was affecting their emotional wellbeing, I’d have to make a very difficult decision. Similarly, I wouldn’t automatically rehome one of them on the say so of a psychic - or anyone, for that matter! I know my cats, and it just so happened that everything Samantha was saying resonated with my own feelings and suspicions. Related post: Signs of Stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment We also had lots of laughs during this three-way conversation between the cats, Samantha and ourselves. You can literally ask anything and the communicator will “translate” the answers given by your pet. If you thought kids were unashamedly honest then wait until you hear what animals have to say! Drax seems to have quite the sense of humour, describing his new urinary food as “disgusting” and challenging us to eat it ourselves. If you’re struggling to comprehend how animals can verbally communicate, you’re not alone. As if telepathy wasn’t X-Men enough, hearing that cats can speak our human language may be the point at which you finally click off this post. I wouldn’t blame you and I can only pass on what small amount of insight I’ve gleamed from this experience. Being on the same energetic wavelength or "frequency" as an animal allows the psychic to tune into their thoughts, feelings and emotions, which is interpreted into a language we understand. Can your cats “speak” English? Probably not, but I’m just a dumb human so what do I know anyway? Drax had a lot of negative energy that Samantha cleansed from his system to help him get his head straight. She also reassured him that he was safe, secure and protected - there was no way this intruder cat was ever getting into the house. When Samantha asked Simba if there was anything she could do to smooth his relationship with Drax, he told her in no uncertain terms that: “He (Drax) can sod off!” Sounds like something a cat would say, right? As I’ve highlighted, we can’t make demands of our pets and the best Samantha could do was to help him work on his confidence. The less nervous he was around Drax, the better they’d get on in general. When Samantha asked Simba if he wanted to be rehomed, his response was: “I’m not going anywhere. He’s the problem, he (Drax) can sod off!” Again with the sodding off - how very British! And so VERY Simba. Overall, the cats expressed that they were happy with their lives and their only request was a few more open windows. Outside may have been too scary to venture, but a nice breeze was enjoyable enough. Samantha made no promises that their relationship would ever be as it once was, but I was prepared for that. Ending the fighting was my main concern, and the effects of Samantha’s energetic healing were instantly visible. Even as we were speaking on the phone, Drax plodded into the living room and lay down in front of me with a dreamy look in his eyes. He was unbelievably relaxed and, no joke, his fur was soft as cotton wool. He spent a good ten minutes grooming himself before taking a long nap on a comfy chair. For reference, it’s rare to see him downstairs during the day - let alone asleep in the living room. He'd been showing a lot of unrest in the previous weeks but his pacing back and forth soon came to an end. He paid no attention to Simba, none of the usual staring or stalking, and Simba seemed to grow a (tiny) pair of balls. In the weeks following, Drax became desperate to play - which was better than fighting - but it took a long time for Simba to accept his brother’s friendship. The spats continued to happen but less frequently, and far less severe. It’s important to remember that there are no miracle cures or magic wands here. This enlightening experience was part of a process and there was a lot of work for us humans to do, too. This largely consisted of disinfecting the yard and house to remove all traces of the intruding party, and from there things continued to slowly improve. While I do believe in animal communication and that we really were connecting to the boys, even if I didn’t believe it, there’s no doubting that without Samantha’s guidance, we may never have got to the root of Drax’s problem. If you’re still sceptical or want more proof then go ahead and book a session. Seeing is believing! Where Can I Find a Good Animal Communicator? When we talk about psychics, it’s easy to picture a gypsy-like woman sitting behind a crystal ball with a deck of tarot cards - and there’s nothing wrong with that, provided she’s reputable. If your car needed fixing then you’d spend a fair amount of time researching local garages, reading reviews, gathering quotes. No one likes a scammer and finding a legitimate psychic is, in theory, no different to anything else. Tarot cards and crystal balls are merely tools, similar to unconventional medicine. Homeopathy and aromatherapy have no real evidence to demonstrate effectiveness, yet both are widely used and accepted in spite of controversy. Our “proof” is in the senses, of which psychic ability uses a sixth and largely untapped one. Just because we can’t see, hear, smell, taste or touch something…. doesn’t mean it’s non-existent. A good place to start are platforms such as Etsy, Facebook or Gumtree, although I’ve never used the latter. I prefer Etsy as a safer bet with reviews from verified buyers, purchase protection, confidentiality and a more worldwide search option. As stated, most psychics can work remotely using a photograph to connect with you or your loved ones (pets included). You can also get readings via email instead of phone or video chat. Not all psychics will have credentials; after all, it’s not something you can typically study at your local college or university. Certificates of completed courses are always a good sign, whether it’s the study of tarot reading, reiki or other forms of energetic healing; but I don’t believe it’s necessary. An artist may not come with a degree but that doesn’t mean the talent isn’t there. Sometimes, honing the skills we already have is sufficient enough. The most important thing to look for is reviews and feedback from former clients. Do they have a website or social media presence? Are their clients based locally or internationally? Do they appear in any articles, blogs or magazines? Not everyone has to be a celebrity, we’re really looking for a positive reputation. While we’re on the subject of psychics, perhaps you can let your intuition pick one! Naturally, the more in demand a service or product is, the higher the prices will be. Psychics that work with celebrities may charge a fortune just because they can, with a waiting list to prove it. The advantage of Etsy is that prices start from as little as £5-£10, which isn’t to say the quality of readings is any less than a £100 session. Many people use Etsy as a starting platform to showcase their brand, build a loyal client base and gather reviews. Whether you go for a selling platform like Etsy, a broader Google search or word of mouth, the most important thing is to do your research. If necessary, start off small with a basic email reading to get a feel for what you’re purchasing. Even if you don’t find it helpful or come away from it even more sceptical than before, the most you’re going to lose is a few quid out of your wallet. It will cause no harm to pets and, best-case scenario, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of your cats. My best advice is to take the experience and form your own conclusions. Do you have any experiences or recommendations to share regarding animal communicators? Do you believe you have the "gift" or a special connection to your pets? Comment and spread the word!

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. How to Stop Cats Fighting: Vets Stress Territory Food and Water Litter Trays Bedding Toys Safe Places Outdoors Also in this article: What to Do If Your Cats Have Been in a Fight More How Can I Tell If Cats Are Fighting or Playing? Products That Reduce Aggression in Cats Summary Managing feline aggression can be a complex process, especially where cat-to-cat aggression is present as it involves not one, but two (sometimes more) separate parties. In order to stop cats from fighting or attacking other cats, we have to find out why they're attacking in the first place. Understanding the   type of aggression being displayed and possible causes   goes a long way in developing a strategy for dealing with inter-cat aggression. Vets As with any abnormal behaviour, the first step should be getting your cats checked over by a registered vet. Treatment for any underlying conditions or diseases should be started as soon as possible, and you can talk to your vet about medications for anxiety. This may help to calm your cat in conjunction with behavioural training and environmental modifications. Related post: How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress If aggression is hormonal, such as females in heat or unneutered males, then it's especially important to discuss the option of having cats desexed . Stress If health is generally good then we have to start looking for an external stressor, as cats are more likely to be aggressive under challenging circumstances. Once that stressor is removed, you can work on rebuilding the relationship between your fur babies. While it's not always possible to stop aggression towards other cats, animals or people, controlling it in a safe and appropriate manner can be achieved by paying special attention to a cat's environment - in other words, their territory. ​ YuMOVE Calming Care contains natural ingredients to help reduce stress, anxiety and support calm behaviour. Easy opening capsules so powder can be sprinkled over food. ​To avoid fuelling the fire, never punish or yell at your cats. Fighting is scary enough without adding a fear of humans, and remember what we said about redirected aggression : that fear will most likely be projected onto the other cat, creating more negative associations. Cats are habitual creatures that learn through reward and repetition, not discipline. Keeping them calm and stress-free (as much as possible) is half of the battle. Related post: Signs of Stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment Territory ​ When cats start fighting, regardless of the cause, just helping them to stay out of each other’s way can reduce the risk of explosive encounters. Territorial battles can happen for any number of reasons, from cats reaching sexual maturity to changes in the home or redirected aggression. Something as simple as moving furniture around or a new pet are potential triggers for territorial disputes. Cats will often take their frustration out on the nearest thing, especially other housemates as they're a natural target. This may also be the case for anxiety or fear-based reactions, such as one kitty getting spooked by a loud noise or seeing a stray cat outside. To prevent it from turning into a longer-term issue, it’s crucial that cats aren’t competing for important resources. Related post: 11 Essential Tips Every New Cat Owner Should Know Food and Water Offer multiple food and water stations around the home, or if cats have specified mealtimes then try feeding them on opposite sides of a room. Bowls should be positioned so that neither cat has to turn its back on a potential assailant. Also notice if one cat blocks access to food bowls and, if necessary, feed separately to prevent territorial behaviour from escalating. Adding more food stations gives cats the opportunity to go elsewhere, eliminating competition. They should always have free access to water, and you can make drinking more exciting with pet fountains in various designs. Fountains are also a great distraction! FeelNeedy Wireless Cat Water Fountain is a large-capacity, stainless steel fountain that can be placed anywhere in the home. It has a multi-layer filtration system and three flow modes: sensor, timer and continuous. It's common for cats to squabble over food and/or hunger because it's such a basic survival instinct. How irritable do you get once your stomach starts rumbling, and how many times have you taken that out on other people by being short-tempered and snappy? This is even more the case with our pets, having to rely on someone else to feed them. Scheduled meals satisfies a cat's need for routine so they always know when they're going to be fed, which can go a long way in reducing anxiety. Shop smart fountains and automatic feeders → Automatic feeders may be useful, as they work on a timer to make sure cats have set mealtimes even when you're away from home. If necessary, split meals into smaller "snacks" that you can feed more frequently without overfeeding. Lastly, you should evaluate what you're actually feeding your cat. A species-appropriate, nutritionally-balanced diet made from quality ingredients should never be overlooked. The old saying "healthy body, healthy mind" applies to animals as well as humans. Related post: The Truth About Commercial Cat Food: What Really Goes into Your Pet's Food? Litter Trays The general rule for litter trays is one per cat, plus one extra. Lidded or hooded trays are not recommended in multi-cat homes as it can cause territorial disputes around the entrance, although cats of a nervous disposition might find the privacy more comfortable. Stainless steel trays have a few advantages over plastic ones: they're longer lasting, easier to clean and don't trap nasty odours. Cats should have enough space to turn around without being squashed or restricted, and you could try changing the type or brand of litter to one your kitty prefers. Toileting outside the litterbox can also be a sign of stress, anxiety, UTIs and other conditions. ​ Stainless Steel Litter Box has a smooth surface that prevents litter from sticking to the bottom and doesn't absorb smells. High anti-splash sides help to contain litter and are easily removed for cleaning. It may seem extensive but there were times during Drax’s bullying, usually in the early hours of the morning when no one was around to supervise, that he’d trap Simba in the living room. Unable to reach a tray, Simba was forced to pee on the floor. Not only does this create further distress, but holding in urine can cause cystitis and other urinary problems. If your kitty is too scared to go to the toilet, it's not just your floors that will suffer. Lastly, make sure litter trays are kept clean and remove any mess as soon as possible, especially where territorial aggression is being displayed. Smelling another cat's pheromone-loaded pee all over the house is likely to piss it off even more (pardon the pun). I strongly believe this played a role in managing my own cats' behaviour after we had a problem with stray cats urine spraying outside . Related post: What Are Cat Pheromones and How Do They Work? Bedding Each cat should have its own sleeping area, whether it’s a basket , shelf, cat tree or whatever your fur babies prefer. A territorial cat may try to drive others away by jumping or pouncing on them while they're asleep - so the higher, the better. FEANDREA Cat Tree Tower comes in a choice of sizes and colours, providing plenty of space with thirteen scratch posts; two perches; two caves; a basket and hammock. If you have a dominant kitty that loves to steal everyone’s beds, by giving them options you’re (hopefully) eliminating the problem. Cats love variety, so stay one step ahead by providing more than they need! We should address the importance of a cat's sleep, as it's not just a time for rest but crucial for conserving energy. In the wild, cats must stay alert to potential threats and hunting opportunities. They're known for their short naps - hence the term "cat nap" - throughout the day due to their crepuscular nature. This means they're most active before sunrise and sunset, as their usual prey is small rodents and birds that emerge in low light conditions, for which cats have excellent vision . Creating a safe and comfortable environment helps to improve a cat's sleep quality, behavioural health and general wellbeing. Related post: 10 Best Types of Cat Beds Toys Contrary to their reputation for laziness and sleeping for 16 hours a day, cats are known for their short bursts of energy or "zoomies" as they're sometimes referred to. As mentioned above, these energy reserves are used for hunting and being on alert for potential danger. When you consider the average cat toy : feathers, mice, teasers and things with moving parts, they're all designed to stimulate a cat's predatory instincts. Therefore, it's not surprising that cats are amongst the most playful pets you can own. Play is a form of exercise and an essential part of health and wellbeing, just like humans. Even ten minutes a day can make all the difference, especially for indoor cats that require additional stimulation. Depending on the nature and personality of your cat, some are like a can of beans waiting to explode! Visit The more energy that's burned off during play, the better. This means that cats will be too exhausted to fight and need to recharge their kitty batteries for the next hunt. It also helps to take the focus away from other cats, particularly victims of bullying. Offering plenty of toys in different areas or rooms of the home is an essential part of managing aggression. Related post:  DIY Cat Toys That Are Cheap and Easy to Make: Step-by-Step Guides If you're worried about cats fighting when you're away from home and don't want to separate them, interactive or battery-operated toys  c an be left for cats to entertain themselves at their own leisure. YVE LIFE Motion Activated Cat Laser Toy has 3 speeds and a range of movement patterns - no more boring circles! Laser has a working distance of around 4 metres and is USB rechargeable. Remember to pay particular attention to common fighting or ambush zones such as doorways and corridors. I've found scratch mats and posts to be one of the best distractions, as cats scratch to communicate their territorial rights by using the scent glands in their paws. They'll often do this in the presence of other cats, so it allows them to flex their dominance without engaging or attacking. Lastly, if your home allows for it, offer a designated window area where cats can observe the outdoors. Bird feeders are great for attracting wildlife for a realistic cinema experience! Related post: Cat Enrichment Ideas and Boredom Breakers for Indoor Cats Safe Places Offering a private space for any victim cats can help to reduce stress and boost confidence: a quiet room or area where they can’t be disturbed, huts or boxes to hide in and cat trees for height advantage. Our furry friends naturally enjoy the option of different levels, and having that all-important vantage point offers safety from predators. Enclosed spaces can be problematic in some instances, as restricting a cat's vision makes them vulnerable to oncoming predators. I discovered this when Simba used to hide in the wardrobe and hiss whenever Drax peered through the gap in the door. It also gives bullies the perfect opportunity to block entrances, so they should be kept away from hiding places. Fighting is more likely to occur if there aren't enough escape routes and avoidance opportunities, especially where bullying is concerned. Simba would climb any shelf or stand he could get to in order to avoid Drax’s attacks. There are plenty of options available, from free-standing to wall-mounted and even window hammocks. Ramps may be beneficial in narrow corridors, not forgetting those strategically placed scratch posts. PawHut Cat Stand with a round bed covered in plush fabric and sturdy base to prevent toppling. Includes a jute scratching post and hanging pompom. Two dominant cats may be harder to manage, as both will resort to aggression quicker than if one is a submissive Simba. Adding more territory to claim keeps them out of each other's ways, and it was honestly one of the best things I did for my cats. Whether you live in a one-bedroom apartment or three-storey mansion, turning your home into a cat playground can be quick, easy and relatively inexpensive. Related post: Small Cat Tree Stands and Towers for All Cats (Tried and Tested) If investing in cat trees, it's worth choosing one that's tall or has a single perch to prevent bullies from trying to encroach on another cat's territory, thus limiting climbing opportunities. Trees with condos are great for saving space, but remember to observe your bully in case it uses huts as blocking and staring opportunities. Shop Pet Furniture → The main benefits of adding more resources to the home are to limit feelings of competition, avoid unpleasant encounters; provide comfort and make your cats happier overall. A possessive kitty can't guard every food bowl, bed and litter tray at the same time! A stimulating environment with plenty of scratch posts, toys and climbing areas will create a distraction from other “target” cats so they can channel their energy into something positive and fun. Related post:   Top 10 Products I Used to Help Reintroduce Fighting Ca ts Outdoors If cats are free to roam outside then aggression is less easily contained and can spread beyond the boundaries of the home. Using a harness is great for control and exercise but requires more supervision, which isn’t always convenient. It may be wise to let cats out at different times or prevent them from leaving the garden so they can't bump into strays. If your cats are fighting with a neighbour's cat then it's entirely possible that they're bringing that aggression back to the home.   Related post: The 8 Best Cat Deterrents for Gardens and Yards PEFUNY Cat Window Hammock features powerful suction cups and a stainless steel frame that can hold a weight of up to 18kg. Double-sided fabric makes it suitable for all seasons and it can be folded up when not in use. A more costly option involves building or installing a catio (cat-patio). This is an enclosure leading from a door or window, usually constructed from a wooden frame and wire mesh. Think of it as a mini conservatory where cats can hang out and bask in the fresh air without the risk of escape. You could also have a self-contained enclosure if free access to the house isn't possible. Omlet has some innovative designs for various outdoor spaces. In cases of severe aggression, you might consider treating them as indoor cats while the issue is being dealt with; or permanently if it persists. Catios are great for preventing fights between neighbourhood c ats. Another danger of letting cats outdoors, particularly in cases of territorial or redirected aggression, is that picking up the scents of strays and intruders might exacerbate the situation. Even the whiff of coming face to face through a cat flap is enough to alert a sensitive kitty. In my own experience, it was highly likely that a cat had urine sprayed in the yard and people had unknowingly trodden it into the house. Rest assured that if another cat has peed on your doorstep, any resident kitties will know about it! What to Do If Your Cats Have Been in a Fight As mentioned above, if cats have engaged in a physical fight - whether with a housemate or a stray - then confine them indoors to prevent further encounters and so you can monitor their behaviour. Keep offending cats separated until there's no visible tension, and don't try to soothe them in the first instance as it can take some time for adrenaline to leave the system. Both of my cats have hissed at me after a fight, so it's best to leave well alone and wait for them to approach you. If cats are showing   signs of aggression   such as hissing and growling, you can place a piece of cardboard or a cushion between them to block off eye contact; or try distracting with a toy. Never use hands to separate cats, especially during a full-contact fight. A long-handled object such as a broom will prevent injury to both cats and humans, or throw a blanket over them before handling. The most important thing is to remain as calm as possible. You'll also need to check for injuries : superficial cuts and bleeding is more easily spotted than bites, as a cat's fangs puncture the skin to create narrow holes that close up quickly and may not be noticeable through their thick fur. This can trap bacteria and cause infections or abscesses that worsen over time. Most wounds generally heal without treatment and cats return to their normal selves, but if they appear withdrawn, limp or quieter than usual then you should consult a vet immediately. Keep claws trimmed to minimise injury to other cats. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting How Can I Tell If Cats Are Fighting or Playing? Not all cats enjoy play fighting, especially with a dominant kitty that they'd rather steer clear of; but if they do engage in a good ol' wrestling match then there's no need to break it up. In fact, this is great for bonding and helps cats to burn off energy without you having to lift a finger - or toy, in this case. It's normal for cats to chase, pounce, roll and bat each other around. You might see them biting each other's necks while wrestling but this isn't an attempt to maim. If cats wanted to injure each other then they would, and you'd know about it from the screams of the victim. This is a scary notion, but spotting the differences between play and aggression   is simple once you know how. Play fighting is usually silent, although you might hear the odd hiss or cry if it gets rough, but cats will return to normal with no lingering tension afterwards. Occasionally, an overexcited kitty may not take the hint and continue the play session regardless. To prevent the situation from escalating, distract it with a toy and separate if necessary. Pet Remedy Calming Diffuser contains a low concentration of valerian and essential oils to work with a cat's natural calming mechanisms when tackling stress and anxiety. Ideal for most pets including cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents and birds. Products That Reduce Aggression in Cats In addition to environmental modifications, there are many helpful products on the market that claim to reduce aggression. This is usually achieved by targeting anxiety or stress-related behaviours: scratching, urine spraying , overgrooming and hiding amongst others. Even if anxiety isn’t the cause of fighting in multi-cat households, it can certainly be a result. The most common products include plug-in diffusers  that release essential oils or pheromones (such as Feliway ); calming sprays , collars and herbal treats . Unfortunately, this doesn’t always solve the problem and additional steps must be taken. The most common and recommended method is the separation and reintroduction  process. Summary Get cats checked over by a vet to rule out any medical issues or conditions. Identify and remove potential stressors. Ensure plenty of resources to eliminate competition (food stations, litter trays, bedding, etc). Add more territory to help cats stay out of each other's ways. Offer plenty of toys and playtime to burn off excess energy. Keep cats indoors if possible. The road to solving aggression can be a long one, and as any advice will tell you, early intervention is more likely to result in a successful outcome. One of the most common issues parents face is fighting in multi-cat households, particularly aggression between indoor cats. Even if it takes months before your fur babies can share a space together, going through the correct procedures can prevent more aggression from building up over time. Cats may lose their bonds, be it temporarily or permanently, and the ultimate decision as to whether they can live in harmony is down to them. All we can do is aid the process, which will be much harder if they’ve built up an ingrained hatred for one other. Happy cats need a happy home, and it starts by creating a cat-friendly environment. Check out this post for more tips and advice: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources Mentioned Products FEANDREA Large Cat Tree Amazon Basics Cat Scratching Post FELIWAY Optimum Cat Calming Plug-In Do you have your own experiences with inter-cat aggression? Let us know in the comments if this article helped or share any hints and tips of your own.